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Re: Metastatic Breast Cancer to 5+ Yrs. NED--Question
Karen, sadly I think we metsters can never say we "used to have breast cancer". If there is one thing the doctors seem to emphasise, it is that there is no cure for metastatic disease. Some of us are lucky enough to live well for years with minimal treatment, but as Steph points out in her latest posting, the road is seldom an easy one.
In Australia, the docs are reluctant to use the NED expression. I am fortunate enough to be stable at the moment with sclerotic bone lesions and liver mets which are described as "almost immeasurable and most likely inactive." Perhaps as good as it gets?
I don't mean to sound negative - this site and other contact with Stage IV women have taught me hope and a blithe disregard for statistics. The ostrich syndrome?
Long may we all live, with the disease if necessary.
Best wishes..... Pam
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Diagnosed 2004: Lumpectomy - 2 tumours, both grade 1 infiltrating duct carcinoma, about 12mm. ER+,
C-erbB-2 status 3+.
Clear margins, no nodal involvement.
Radiotherapy, i year Tamoxifen, 4 years Arimidex.
Rediagnosed 2012: Multiple bone metastases.
3/12: began on Marianne trial - T-DM1 + Pertuzamab/Placebo.
5/12:Unexpected development of numerous bilateral liver mets. Came off trial.
Started Docetaxol/ Herceptin + Zometa.
8/12:Bones stable +major regression in liver (!)
9/12:Can't take any more Docetaxol! Start on Herceptin and Tamoxifen. Cross fingers!
Changed to Denosumab.
11/12: Scan shows stable - yay!
11/13: Still stable :-) !!!
1/16: All stable, but lowered calcium, so switched to Zometa 3 monthly.
2/19: Happily still stable on Herceptin, Letrozole and 3 monthly Zometa.
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