[Cancer--the desire for a second opinion is prompted by a need for orientation]

After learning that they have cancer, increasing numbers of patients seek a second opinion from another specialist. The heavy burden of the diagnosis, together with the flood of information they receive can confuse the patients. The search for orientation and support can be made easier by a second specialist provided he/she provides comprehensive and relevant advice covering tumor-specific, psychological, social, physiotherapeutic and alternative-medical aspects. In this sense, a second opinion is a major element of modern oncology. Openness with regard to the second opinion strengthens the doctor-patient relationship rather than weakening it. For the primary physician it is important to know that the patient's motivation for obtaining a second opinion is, as a rule, a need for reorientation and an ability to cope with a feeling of helplessness, but not dissatisfaction with the primary physician.