Today I had my 2nd MUGA Scan this year. Actually, it was my second time ever. MUGA scans measure how well your heart is pumping blood. In my situation, both chemo drugs I have been on this year can cause CHF (Congestive Heart Failure). Doxil is a higher risk for CHF than Avastin. We did a baseline MUGA scan before I began chemo this year. The first one was normal. Hopefully this one will be too.

They start an IV (they used my port) and draw a blood sample. Then, they take the blood sample to their lab and “tag” the red blood cells with radioactive material. (They also add a drug called Heparin so the blood will not clot.). Then, they inject you through your IV with the “tagged” blood cells. Afterward, they do the scan, three 10 minute scans. That is the procedure.

I have come to look forward to my scans because I usually see one or more people that I know. ( I worked at the hospital for 40 years so I know many people.). The last time I worked there was February of 2018 when I discovered I was having my 1st reoccurence. Everyone treats me very well.

I will hear about my MUGA scan results in about a week. I have had some moderate fatigue lately with no anemia. I am hoping the fatigue is from the chemotherapy I received 3 weeks ago.

My CT scan will be on Friday. I will give you an update afterward.