Got Pathology Report - Stage 3

[Mallele]

Just received pathology report which indicates Invasive Ductal Carcinoma, Grade 3, Lymph Node left axilla, positive for malignant cells.  I am in total shock.  Faithfully had mammograms every year, last year 2 mammograms, 1 ultrasound - results negative.  I wonder if these tests were misinterpreted.  Haven't been able to see an oncologist yet, going round and round trying to get doctor''s appointment.  I am 76, otherwise in good shape, what are the chances of surviving such a thing at my age and what will be in all likelyhood be done to me?
If anyone has some answers, I'd so much appreciate heaing from you.
Mallele

[SueYoung55]

Hi Mallele,

I'm so sorry you got this diagnosis. What kind of surgery did you have or are these results from a biopsy?

I'd contact a really good breast surgeon if these results are from a biopsy or scans and get it removed. If you are in an area where there are breast centers, call to another hematology oncologist. Your age, since you mention you are in good shape shouldn't really factor into your treatment if you have no other serious medical issues. I had stage three invasive lobular carcinoma with two nodes and had chemo, mastectomy, more chemo and radiation.

Although not pleasant by any means, it's do-able. You don't mention if it was ER and/or PR negative or positive nor if it's HER2 positive or negative nor the size of the mass. I you think you can do this, I think you can do this. We'll be here to answer questions if you have them.

Best wishes to you.

[alidi]

I just read your reponse to Mallele,  what is ER or PR negative or positive, and HER
positive or negative. Please , let me know, I am getting my pathogy report on Monday
Oct. 26. I am prepare, for the worst, but ignorant on the above.
No history of breast cancer in my family, Last Mammography on Aug. 13, 2009, was
normal, but a week later I DISCOVER A LUMP IN MY RIGHT BREAST.
Can a lump grow so fast? I am appalled.

Thanks for your knowledge and kindess.

[alidi]

Hi; I am here to support you, hang in there, let us know , your thoughts,
and the Doctor prognosis, you are not alone, we are fighting together.
God Bless!!

[bluebutterfly2222]

Sue Young55 said of  breast cancer treatment, "although not pleasant by any means, it's do-able."

This is underscored by a post today (10/24/09), "Something positive," by debbie422.

Perhaps it will provide some additional hope for you that you will be able whatever you may be facing...

Best wishes and please keep us posted on how things are going.