1 dr. says I should have Taxol after surgery, other does not.

[Dixie]

Infiltrating ductile carcinoma diagnosed by incisional biopsy in July - Grade 3. ER/PR are both positive. Dr. did Cytoxin/adriamiacin chemo to reduce tumor size. Had lumpectomy in early November. Negative margins removed 1.9 cm lump. 25 nodes removed, 1 positive. HER2Neu results were a weak positive 1. Oncologist where I had my surgery recommended adjuvent round of Taxol in addition to radiation and Tamoxifen. My original oncologist still suggests only radiation and Tamoxifen. Although I was very ill with the first chemo, I am willing to do Taxol if advised. My lump, although noticible to the touch, was not detected on my mammogram so I am very concerned about future detection. I am beginning radiation on Monday.

[isabel68]

Dixie,
I had 4 rounds of CAF prior to mastectomy for 4.5 cm tumor.  After mastectomy, they found 2 mm focus of cancer cells and all 12 lymph nodes removed were negative.  My original oncologist said I didn't need additional chemo but I had 2nd opinion with oncologist from MD Anderson and he recommended 4 cycles of Taxol.  I ended up having Taxol after surgery and it was very easy...nothing is as bad as Adryamicyn.  Find as much information as possible and get another opinion if you are not satisfied.  How big was your tumor prior to surgery?  Did you have palpable nodes?  Take care and good luck with your treatment!

[CCF-RN,MSN-rf]

Dear dixie:  Although specific protocols that include neoadjuvant chemotherapy (chemo before surgery) are still being researched, many oncologists would opt for chemotherapy both before and after surgery, regardless of radiation and tamoxifen.  This is especially true given the residual tumor and positive lymph node.  You might consider another "tie breaker" opinion.