Tom Galli

Thank you so much for your answer.  I guess that is what is so confusing.  There have been multiple biopsies...needle biopsy, then an EBUS with a biopsy that definitively showed cancer and Biodesix---the liquid biopsy.  I am going to ask after the medianscopy about the exact stage and type.  I think we just wanted to put it out of our minds during Christmas.  One more thing--does bronchoscopy cause shortness of breath?  The radiation oncologist said that it could/did and he has had two within a relatively short period of time.  It is just that prior to diagnosis--no noticeable shortness of breath and now after the bronchoscopy and EBUS...he seems to be very short of breath after walking any distance.

Thank you so much!!!

I've had perhaps a dozen bronchoscopies.  I never experIenced shortness of breath after, just a sore throat. But, everyone reacts a little differently so perhaps they didn't cause me shortness of breath  

If you've had multiple biopsies, it is unusual for uncertainty about cancer, yes or no, and if yes, the type. Normally the pathology exam is proforma. Perhaps the needle biopsy didn't get a good sample but they normally get two or three tumor samples. Something strange is going on. I'd ask for copies of the pathology reports. They are pretty easy to understand. 

Are you being treated in the US?

Stay the course.

Tom

Yes, he is.  We are in Alabama. My father does not fly and would never consider international medical care.  Tomorrow is the mediastinoscopy.  Thank you for all your help!!