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Breast Cancer (Expert Forum)
Chemotherapy vs. Tamoxifen
Questions posted in the Breast Cancer Forum are answered by medical professionals from The Cleveland Clinic. Topics include Breast Biopsy, Chemotherapy, Hormone Therapy, Lumps, Lumpectomy, Lymph node dissection, Lymphedema, Mammograms, Mastectomy, Radiation Therapy, Reconstruction, Self Breast Exam, and Surgery.
Chemotherapy vs. Tamoxifen
by p406, Nov 13, 2002 12:00AM
I am trying to understand the use of tamoxifen as a systemic treatment. I understand that chemotherapy can kill cancer cells that may have spread to other parts of the body. I believe I understand that Tamoxifen prevents cell growth but does not kill cells. I have read very conflicting reports about this. I am 35 and was diagnosed with IDC - 1.3 cm tumor ER/PR+; grade 2 and no lymph node or vascular involvement - I had a sentinel node biopsy. I have had a lumpectomy and am trying to make a treatment decision. The recommendation from my oncologist is obviously radation, followed by Tamoxifen for 5 years. If Tamoxifen does not kill cells, what is to prevent their growth once you discontinue taking it? Thanks for any insight you can provide.
Doctor's Answer
by CCF-RN,MSN-rf, Nov 13, 2002 12:00AM
Dear p406: Tamoxifen is an anti-estrogen. It is used to treat women whose breast cancer is estrogen-receptor positive. It works by depriving the tissue of estrogen, thus preventing tumors that are "fed" by estrogen. In clinical trials, the use of tamoxifen was given for 5 vs 10 years. There was no benefit to use of tamoxifen over 5 years. The question is whether you need chemotherapy - this is also controversial.
