Breast Cancer and Ovarian Issues

[joanie40]

I was diagnosed with breast cancer 3 weeks ago. I am 40 and this was my first mammogram. They found 2 areas of DCIS and a tumor that they believe is about 1.2 cm. I am scheduled for surgery on May 11 (bilateral skin-saving mastectomy, sentinel biopsy on both sides, axillary dissection as necessary, and immediate reconstruction).

I also had bone scan (negative) and a chest x-ray (negative). I had a CT of my abdomen that showed a possible abnormality on my liver. So I then had a pet scan that showed the liver was okay but showed something on my right ovary. I then had an ultrasound on my ovaries which was normal, a blood test (normal), a breast cancer marker test (normal), and an ovarian cancer marker test (normal). Still not satisfied, they performed another CT of my pelvis area. The results were inconclusive as to my right ovary. They see 2 spots, one they believe is a cyst and the other they describe as a density. Now they want me to see gynecological oncologist and potentially have a transvaginal ultrasound performed this week.

My first question is what is the likelihood that the ovarian issue is breast cancer metastases? Considering that everything else was normal, it seems very, very unlikely from what I have been reading but nothing seems to make sense anymore. Second, if it not a spread but rather a separate instance of ovarian cancer, how should it be approached? I don't want to put off the mastectomy and reconstruction. Finally, since I will likely have chemo and hormonal therapy for the breast cancer, would additional therapy be necessary

[CCF-RN,MSN-rf]

Dear Joanie40:  Breast cancer metastasis to the ovary is not common but it is not impossible either.  If the transvaginal ultrasound looks suspicious, a gyn oncologist should be consulted to determine the best course of action for determining the etiology, discussing this with your breast surgeon and determining priority and a plan.  Depending on results, future therapeutic options would be recommended in concert with your breast oncologist.  Without evaluation, speculation is not possible.

[AlaskaAngel]

Hi there, sorry you are dealing with this disease.

I have breast cancer and am participating in a national clinical trial for the early detection of ovarian cancer because of family history (OCEDS). You might consider contacting the NCCN cancer center nearest you and asking about the trial, just to get their suggestions on monitoring your risk.

A.A.

[truddeck]

Has anyone had Papillary Serous Carcinoma (uterine) I am 49 yrs old and had this back six years ago,  stage 1 removal Hyst. this week found lump in right breast,  saw cancer doc.  he of course wants a new mamm. The other hospital fax'd me the report of last year's to take new hospital,  it say's, spot compression MLO of right breast taken, (which is where we found the lump) two calcifications seen in upper outer portion of the right breast, round no dominant mass, birads catgory 2:  Breast bilaterally are heterogeneously dense.  My mine is thinking overtime,  can UPSC spread to breasts??  Does anyone Know?
Thanks, tamra  new to this site