LINS II

51 yrs. old..very strong family history BC and ovarian, plus BRCA2 mutation. Had prophylactic bi-lateral mastectomies 12/03. Dr.was surprised to have found LINS II in pathology of right breast tissue...but no carcinomas found. What is LINS and what does the II mean? All they said was that they "got it all" and that I might even be a candidate for HRT, after the recomended hysterectomy/oophrectomy coming up...could that be true?

[CCF-RN,MSN-JS]

Dear carme, I have done some searching regarding LINS II and have been unable to find this terminology used in any of my sources.  Check with your Dr. for clarification, it may be that you have the incorrect term.

[carme]

So, my questions go unanswered or commented on...........

[carme]

It says lobular intraepithelial neoplasia II.

[CCF-RN-JS]

Dear Carme, Sorry for the delay in answering your question.  I have been in contact with our breast pathologist.  The terminology LIN or LN refers to lobular neoplasia in the breast.  LIN2 is basically the same as lobular carcinoma in situ with the 2 (on a scale from 1 to 3) refering to the degree of involvement of the normal breast tissue by the lobular neoplasia. Lobular neoplasia is now considered to be a marker for risk of developing breast cancer in the future and is generally not treated.

From what you have posted, you were already determined to be at high risk (thus the bilateral mastectomy).  LIN2 is just another marker of risk, similar to risks you already were aware of.

In regards to the use of hormone replacement therapy (HRT), the decision to do so would need to be based on weighing of risks and benefits in your particular situation.