Person is 91yrs old has colon cancer, took 6wks of chemo and dr said no more. what do we expect and what symptoms will she have she has colon cancer and lesions on her liver as well as having cancer in the uretha when she finished her 6wks of chemo she

This : This patient has a very difficult problem to address and her age does not make things easier. You are describing metastatic cancer, and typically patients will stay on chemotherapy indefinitely as long as they can tolerate it and as long as the patient wishes to pursue this treatment. If she "went down hill" as you describe, i take that to mean she is not tolerating the chemotherapy. The hard truth is that very few patients will find a "cure" with chemo alone. The life expectancy varies depending on the nature of the tumor and the tolerance of the patient on chemotherapy. A patient not tolerating chemotherapy may need to consider other options such as hospice. Doctors do not like discussing end of life issues, but you need to corral this doctor and get the straight talk from him. Talk to the patient and see what she wants. The important issue is that the patient must maintain autonomy in her decision and some dignity in life as well. The local cancer society may have some literature describing your situation and there may be some help groups available for emotional support. If she belongs to a church, now is the time to circle her with friends and family who will support her emotionally and spiritually as well.

Palliative care: We're working to improve palliative care for patient.S early palliative supportive care has shown greater quality of life. Patients with less aggresive care (chemo) at the end-of life have shown to survive 2-3 months longer. Palliative care is not end-of life. It's focused on comfort, pain control, support and a better transition to end-of-life. Most patients prefert to pass at home and not alone.