Yolk Sac Tumor Post-Op Day 90: We Beat the Hurdle!
Yolk Sac Tumor Win: Our Little Warrior’s 90-Day Milestone
July 24, 2024 — It’s been exactly 90 days since our baby Tuobao had surgery for a yolk sac tumor. When the doctor smiled and said, “The follow-up results are great — no signs of metastasis,” the tight knot in my chest (held for 3 months) finally loosened.
I want to share this joy and relief with every family going through the same journey. I’ll also break down the key yolk sac tumor facts we’ve learned. My hope? To give you a little strength and hope as you navigate this tough road, too.
3 Months of Ups and Downs: Our Journey So Far
Looking back, these 3 months weren’t easy. We felt lost and hopeless when we first heard “malignant yolk sac tumor.” We held our breath during surgery and tiptoed through every post-op day.
We waited anxiously for each follow-up — and today, we can breathe easy. Tuobao is our little hero. From surgery to recovery, to every blood test, he never cried or fought. His tiny body holds huge courage, and it’s carried our whole family forward.
Follow-Up Results: The Numbers That Matter
Let’s start with the good news — the blood test results. On post-op day 90 (July 24), Tuobao’s AFP (Alpha-Fetoprotein) level was 3.95 ng/ml.
Just 16 days earlier (July 7, post-op day 74), his AFP was 4.49 ng/ml. It’s slowly dropping — a sign we’ve been praying for.
AFP is a key marker for yolk sac tumor recurrence. After surgery, a steady drop means his body is healing, and cancer cells aren’t coming back. This alone made all our worries worth it.
Imaging Scan: No Metastasis — A Huge Relief
Imaging tests are just as important as blood work at the 3-month mark. I told the doctor: “Check every inch of his abdomen — don’t miss anything, no matter how small.”
We did an abdominal ultrasound. I held Tuobao’s hand tight the whole time, silently praying, “Please be okay.” And the doctor delivered: every part of his abdomen looked normal—no signs of metastasis at all.
We officially crossed the most critical 3-month hurdle — and it feels amazing.
A Small Detour: Left Hydrocele (No Big Deal!)
There was one minor issue in the follow-up: the scan revealed a small left hydrocele (fluid surrounding the testicle).
But the doctor reassured us: it’s very minor, and no treatment is needed right now. Many kids absorb the fluid on their own. A few may have swelling — we’ll do another ultrasound next month to check.
If it swells suddenly, a small minimally invasive surgery can fix it. A little bump in the road — nothing matters as long as Tubao is healthy.
Yolk Sac Tumor 101: Key Facts for Parents
I want to share simple, useful yolk sac tumor info — to help you avoid mistakes we almost made.
Yolk sac tumor is a germ cell cancer, most common in kids and teens. It usually starts in the ovaries or testicles, but can also grow in the abdomen or pelvis.
AFP is its most important marker: levels are usually very high before surgery. After the tumor is removed, AFP should drop steadily. Regular AFP tests and imaging (ultrasound, CT) are the best way to catch recurrence early.
Post-Op Care Tips: What We Learned
Good post-op care makes a big difference. Here’s what worked for us:
• Diet: Keep it light and easy to digest. Add nutrient-dense foods to boost immunity.
• Rest: Let your child rest — no overexertion.
• Emotions: Spend extra time with them. Encouragement and joy help them heal faster.
Most importantly: Follow your doctor’s orders. Never skip follow-ups — even if results are good. Consistent check-ins keep your child safe.
Closing Thoughts: Hope for the Future
We’ve passed the 3-month mark, and the future looks bright. Watching Tuobao regain energy and smile again — it’s all worth it.
To my sweet Tuobao: May you grow up happy, healthy, and free from illness.
To every family with a yolk sac tumor warrior: Don’t give up. Yolk sac tumor has a good prognosis, especially in kids. With timely treatment, regular follow-ups, and good care, most kids recover fully and live normal lives — Tuobao is proof.
Fighting cancer is never a solo journey. We support each other, encourage each other, and we will beat this. Here’s to warmer days ahead, and to protecting the most precious gifts in our lives — our kids.
