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Breast Cancer (Expert Forum)
Cytoxan burn during chemotherapy resulting in delay in beginning radiation
Answered by
Cleveland - OH
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.
Cytoxan burn during chemotherapy resulting in delay in beginning radiation
by PamYR, Jul 11, 2007 12:00AM
I have just recently finished chemotherapy for my Stage IIB breast cancer (diagnosis in 1/2007, lumpectomy in 2/2007). Unfortunately, during my chemo I experienced a cytoxan burn due to a leak toward the end of one of the chemo sessions, most likely caused by a needle not being inserted properly in my port. While the cytoxan burn has improved, it is still not completely healed, and the area is still somewhat sore and firm to the touch. At it's widest point, the area is about 1.5 inches wide, and about 2 inches long. My radiologist has told me that it would be best to delay radiation as a result for a couple of months to allow the burn area to heal more. Will I still have the same outcome if I delay the radiation, i.e. the probability of cancer recurrence will still be the same?
Thanks very much for your input.
Thanks very much for your input.
Doctor's Answer
by Cleveland Clinic, Jul 11, 2007 12:00AM
, Jul 11, 2007 12:00AM
Dear PamYR: If the area is not healed and is within the radiation field, it may be appropriate to delay radiation because radiation may cause further tissue and skin damage and it is generally important to complete the entire course of radiation. The long term effects regarding recurrence rates from delaying radiation are not known. However, the individual situation must be evaluated to determine the best course of action given the risks and benefits.
