Male breast cancer

[tassieb]

I was diagnosed with male breast cancer two years ago. I have had a masectomy of the left breast and auxillar lymph nodes (16) taken, with cancer in five, then chemotherapy and radiation. Since then, I have been on tamoxifen.
Side effects are several and concerning, including a recent small stroke and ongoing indications of brain/head/eye disturbances. I have been put on asasantin to combat/prevent strokes My medical oncologist says stay on tamoxifen but my radiation oncologist says have a break for six to eight weeks to see what side effects disappear and then make a decision on whether to continue tamoxifen through the normal five year cycle.
Is there any side effect research or data regarding men using tamoxifen or any side effect data for women that would be applicable.
I am 66, was normally healthy and active but currently lack any physical stamina. I do not believe that I now have any cancer in my body.

[tassieb]

Thanks for the help and suggestions.

My various medicos have now agreed that I should try a six-week layoff from tamoxifin. One week in an I am sure that I feel much more normal. Maybee it is partly the mind at work?

regards

tassieb

[lizziecee]

Hi - sorry you have had to join our club. I am afraid I don't know much about male breast cancer but you may get some help on the Brtish breast cancer site where there is a forum for men with bc. The URL is: www.breastcancercare.org.uk I have learned so much from the people who post there. I am sure there will be a man, or men, who are using tamoxifen and can properly advise you of their experience. I am taking Arimidex which has a better prognosis than tamoxifen in preventing a recurrence, but I don't know if it can be used for men. It is only prescribed for post-menopausal women (pre-menopausal women have to take tamoxifen) but logically I can't see why a man cannot have it. You might try googling Arimidex to see if it can be prescribed for men. I also had a small stroke 2 yrs ago (dx 4 yrs ago) which has left me with no sense of taste or smell. I have been fine since.
Good luck
Liz.