Hi Carole,
It is true that the majority of pituitary tumors stay small and do not grow into a macro. At least not big enough to cause neurological deficit's. I am not against treating Cushing's with medications such as Vetoryl (trilo) or Lysodren. These drugs can/do manage Cushings symptoms well for many of our pups.
My concern is with restarting Vetoryl after radiation, when a macro-tumor is already present. Radiation is tried with no guarantee that it will do anything. It is hopeful that it will somewhat stall the tumor's growth, possibly even shrink it to some degree, relieving some neuro signs temporaily. All in hope to buy a little more quality time. I understand Marianne's thought regarding this and she does make a point. It is all about quality of life. However, it seems counterproductive to restart a drug to reduce cortisol, leaving the tumor unchecked to grow. Radiation has been done to help shrink the tumor in hope to relieve neuro symptoms. Mega $$$$ have been spent to do this. Restarting Vetoryl in this circumstance just doesn't make sense to me.
Skippy reminds me of my own little yorkie Buddy. All of this is heartbreaking. Watching Buddy slip farther and farther away and not being able to stop it tore my heart out. It still hurts over fours years later. So much that I still come here to help when I can. I do this as a pay it forward, so to speak for all the help and support that I received during Buddy's journey. That support was unwavering and literally kept me from going totally insane. We are here for you and Skippy and will remain here for you always.
You are a fighter Carole! Skippy is blessed to have you in his corner.
Kathy