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Microcalcifications & cancer tests
Hi,
I would like some feedback regarding microcalcifications of remaining breast and cancer tests/screenings in general. I've been reading all the comments for six months or so and am grateful for all the personal info on Herceptin. I posted similar comments in new members section, but would very much like comments from the larger group. Sorry, if this is a duplicate post as I'm feeling my way around.
I'm 59 years old now, diagnosed Feb 2004, invasive ductal cancer, her-2 neu 3+ (strong), stage 2, tumor grade 3, tumor size 2.5 cm, but no lymph node involvement, and er/pr negative. Mastectomy Feb. 2004. Received only 4 txs of Adriamycin/Cytoxan every three weeks but no taxane drugs (Taxol or taxotere) due to oncologist's recommendation weighing risks and benefits. Originally, my oncologist was not enthusiastic about the benefits of Herceptin for me since no lymph node involvement, but I finally went outside and got a second opinion, plus listening to others and this website. I started receiving Herceptin every three weeks in Jan. 2006. MUGA scans normal so far.
Since 2004 have had 4 cysts drained in remaining right breast, one solid lump biopsied Jan. 2006 (no cancer), but lump is still there. Latest mammo Jan 2006 did not show lump but did show microcalcifications--they are loosely clustered and report said, "probably benign." Calcifications have increased since previous mammo done in 2005. Recommendation from oncologist is to wait another 6 months for another mammo. Previous mammogram in summer 2003 did not reveal anything suspicious of left breast that turned out to be cancer, even though I felt a lump, the doctor felt a lump, and tech felt the lump--hence, my delay in getting assessment and thinking it was "just" a cyst. (I was unaware that dense breast tissue reduces effectiveness of mammograms at that time.) Surgeon will remove remaining breast for "peace of mind" but feels there's no need now. No MRIs, CT scans, or cancer blood screening tests have been ordered to date, except for usual CBC and standard blood tests. Reason given: symptoms not strong enough at this time to warrant testing. I don't want to over-react, but also don't want to miss an opportunity for early detection or prevention. Thanks for any info.
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