Cancer during pregnancy is a rare condition. We report here
a case of a lady diagnosed with nasopharyngeal carcinoma
(NPC) at University of Malaya Medical Centre during her first
pregnancy conceived via In Vitro Fertilisation (IVF). A
multidisciplinary (MDT) meeting among Oncology,
Obstetrics, Rheumatology and Otolaryngology teams was
conducted to discuss her treatment options. She opted for
treatment with Complementary and Alternative Medicine
(CAM). This case illustrates the unique challenges in the
oncological management of a patient diagnosed with NPC
during pregnancy. It also serves as a reminder that the use
of CAM in cancer patients is prevalent. It is important for
doctors to inquire about use of CAM and to be well-informed
about it. Transparent communication and taking cognizance
of the goals and concerns of the patients are essential in
delivering patient-centred care.