Tumor Markers & Update

[Linda]

Hi Vicki:
I was stage 3a, hormone neg and am almost 5 years out (!). No recurrence.
My onc has done tumor markers all along, as well as Vit D level and a physical exam.
After treatment, I started with checks every six weeks and have gradually gone to every 6 mos.
Because I was high risk, my onc insisted on routine scans immediately after finishing treatment. Twice I had false positives (I have radiation scarring on my lung) which almost led to unneeded biopsies. I finally said "no more scans without symptoms." We've stuck to that and I am very comfortable with that decision.
Because I had a lumpectomy, I still have mammos/MRI's twice a year, which I also think is very appropriate.
It's different for everyone. You have to strike a balance between cautious, safe follow up and moving on.
Good luck
Linda