2 Cancers Strike At Once – Multidisciplinary Approach Offers Hope For 78 Yo With Dual Primary Cancersoral
Nashik : In a remarkable demonstration of multidisciplinary oncology expertise, HCG Manavata Cancer Centre (HCGMCC) Nashik, successfully managed a rare and complex case involving simultaneous primary cancers in a 78 year‑old patient from Pune. Mr Balkrushna Tukaram Nigade was diagnosed with Oral Cavity Cancer involving the left buccal mucosa (gum region) and Sigmoid Colon Cancer – a form of colorectal cancer, at the same time, presenting a unique clinical challenge that required meticulous planning and coordinated treatment. The patient first underwent a robotic surgery for colon cancer and following a week’s recovery, the patient underwent oral cancer surgery. Post this, he remained hospitalized for another week and was then discharged in stable condition.
After a comprehensive evaluation that included biopsy reports, PET-CT scans, imaging studies and colonoscopy findings, it was confirmed that both cancers required timely treatment. Recognising the complexity of the case, it was presented before HCGMCC’s Multidisciplinary Tumour Board, comprising experts from Surgical Oncology, Medical Oncology, Radiation Oncology, Radiology, Pathology, Nuclear Medicine, Anaesthesiology and Critical Care. Together, the team formulated a personalised, evidence based treatment strategy tailored specifically to the patient’s condition.
“Managing two primary cancers simultaneously requires meticulous planning and coordination among multiple specialists. Each cancer behaves differently and requires its own treatment strategy. Every decision must be carefully balanced to ensure optimal outcomes while maintaining the patient’s quality of life. Through a multidisciplinary approach, we were able to develop a comprehensive treatment plan tailored specifically to his condition,” says Prof Dr Raj Nagarkar, Chief of Surgical Oncology & Robotic Services and Managing Director, KIMS Manavata Hospitals, HCG Manavata Cancer Centre and Six Sigma, Nashik.
The integrated cancer care model at HCG Manavata Cancer Centre ensured that every aspect of the patient’s diagnosis, treatment planning and supportive care was available under one roof. The combination of advanced diagnostic capabilities, specialised expertise and collaborative decision making enabled the team to deliver comprehensive care while prioritising the patient’s quality of life. Beyond the medical complexities, the diagnosis brought considerable emotional distress for the patient and his family. Regular counselling, transparent communication and continuous support from the treating team helped them navigate the journey with confidence and reassurance.
“Cancer treatment today is no longer about addressing a disease in isolation. It is about treating the patient as a whole. Advances in diagnostics, multidisciplinary care and personalised treatment planning have enabled us to successfully manage even highly complex cases that would have been extremely challenging a few years ago. Early diagnosis and timely referral to specialised cancer centres remain the biggest factors in improving patient outcomes,” concludes Dr Nagarkar.
