Dear emilysjsu, Decisions regarding further therapy relate to a variety of
factorsFactor ix complex such as, staging of the disease, overall health of the patient and health history, her age, hormone receptor status. Then the risks and benefits are weighed specific to her situation - the risks of chemotherapy, hormone therapy and/or radiation therapy vs. the possible benefits.
The stage of her tumor may be either a IIB or III depending on the lymph nodes. IIB consists of a tumor between 2-5cm and positive axillary lymh nodes. Stage IIIA would be if the lymph nodes are fixed together or to other structures. If the lymph nodes inside the chest are involved or the tumor extends into the chest wall or involves and ulcerates the skin, the lesion is Stage IIIB.