Biopsy results

Someone asked that I post an update on my results.  Thanks for asking. Pathology report says DCIS, predominately intermediate grade with focal high grade comedo type.  That last part is not good, as far as I can tell.  I have an appointment with the surgeon next Wednesday.   How can they call something "pre-cancer" that requires surgery and radiation at minimum and mastectomy in some cases?  I find that hard to process.  I get the difference between invasive and non-invasive, but it doesn't seem that this is one bit less "cancer" than the other brands.

[PaulMD]

Hi.

DCIS, whether intermediate or hgh grade is indeed a pre cancer lesion.  The recommended treatment for this can range from a lumpectomy, while some would opt for a mastectomy to really lower the risk of developing an invasive cancer in the future.  If you would opt for a lumpectomy, then additional radiation treatment or hormonal treatment may be recommended to further decrease the chance of developing an invasive cancer.

I would suggest that you discuss with your surgeon the other advantages or disadvantages of each procedure (lumpectomy+RT vs mastectomy) and hopefully make a good informed decision.

Regards and God bless.

[japdip]

A pre-cancer can develop into an invasive cancer if not treated in the recommended manner. You might say it's a "cancer wannabe" and if not treated like a cancer it "will be". The good part is at this stage it is not invasive so there would be no need for Chemo.  Kindest regards ...

[mamaboulet]

japdip, I like your "cancer wannabe" explanation. Good approach.