As noted, by the time your doctor explains the recommended treatment to you, he or she has probably already reviewed the literature, consulted other doctors, met with pathologists and radiologists, drawn on his or her own experience and perhaps met with a Tumor Board.
Nevertheless, you may still feel insecure about the treatment options you've been given. You might want to discuss them with another physician. This is a perfectly acceptable, rational and appropriate thing to do.
There should be no hesitation on your part in asking your doctor if he or she would have another specialist review all the material relating to your case. Second opinions are not unusual.
In view of your need for a continuing relationship with your primary physician or specialist, it would be helpful to express your satisfaction with his or her decision and care. You can simply say that you wish to have someone else review the case to assure yourself that your decision to accept treatment will be made on the most thoroughly informed basis possible.
Who to Consult You may have a certain consultant in mind or you might ask your doctor to select a senior specialist in your city or at a major medical center, depending on your diagnosis. Many times your oncologist may recommend a second opinion and refer you to a local specialist or a specific cancer center where researchers with a special interest in your disease are working. Your doctor should have no hesitation in making your case material, including slides and x-rays, available to the second opinion consultant. This consultation is generally done fairly quickly so it does not delay treatment.
