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McCain Has Glioblastoma

— Senator is said to be recovering 'amazingly well'

MedpageToday

PHOENIX -- According to a pathology report released Wednesday, Senator John McCain (R-Ariz.) has a primary brain tumor known as a glioblastoma. The tumor was associated with the blood clot removed July 14 during a procedure at the Mayo Clinic, Phoenix.

"Scanning done since the procedure (a minimally invasive craniotomy with an eyebrow incision) shows that the tissue of concern was completely resected by imaging criteria," the clinic said in a statement.

"The senator and his family are reviewing further treatment options with his Mayo Clinic care team. Treatment options may include a combination of chemotherapy and radiation.

"The senator's doctors say he is recovering from his surgery 'amazingly well' and his underlying health is excellent," the statement concluded.

News of the senator's diagnosis was met with an outpouring of well-wishes, including this from former President George H.W. Bush who wrote in a statement: "The Hanoi Hilton couldn't break John McCain's spirit many years ago, so Barbara and I know -- with confidence -- he and his family will meet this latest battle in his singular life of service with courage and determination." McCain, a Navy fighter pilot, was taken prisoner during the Vietnam War. He was released in 1973 after enduring years of torture.

The senator's office released the following statement:

"Senator McCain appreciates the outpouring of support he has received over the last few days. He is in good spirits as he continues to recover at home with his family in Arizona. He is grateful to the doctors and staff at Mayo Clinic for their outstanding care, and is confident that any future treatment will be effective. Further consultations with Senator McCain's Mayo Clinic care team will indicate when he will return to the United States Senate."