DCIS rare diagnosis

[Betsy412]

My sister, age 43 was diagnosed with a rare form of DCIS and the doctor recommended chemo in her case. She has also made the decision to have a double mastectomy. While researching this disease, it stated that DCIS is a "pre-cancerous" condition and would not require chemo. She had a lumpectomy for a malignant tumor and found that the sentinel node tested positive, so she went back in for surgery to clear the margin of the tumor and remove more lymph nodes for the pathogist's review. His report indicated that she has a very rare case and chemo/mastectomy is the best treatment. Also, her most recent mammogram was clear.

My question is: why does she need chemo if DCIS is supposed to be non-invasive?

[Betsy412]

Thanks for your comment. She is getting a second opinion but the good news is she has such a positive attitude and has accepted this. Will she still have radiation after a double mastectomy? I appreciate your input.

[SueYoung55]

She had a positive node and it is the best course of treatment and most likely will be followed by radiation. Best wishes for you and your sister's good health.