Oncotype DX and Chemo

I have state IIb breast cancer, lymph node positive.  I just received the oncotype dx score of 19.  I am not sure what to do regarding chemotherapy.  Prior to this test chemotherapy would be a given since it spread to the lymph nodes.  Now my oncologist has left the decision up to me and while I am leaning toward getting chemo I am not certain.  Has anyone else been in this situation?


This discussion is related to Oncotype DX Recurrence Score & Chemotherapy.

[Cheerpul]

I had a very small tumor and my oncologists allowed me to decide about chemo.  I took chemo.  I had 4 of 6 doses of Taxotere, carboplatin and Herceptin (cut short due to serious side effects.) I have continued Herceptin for 11 months and have only 2 more doses to go.  I am also taking Tamoxifen as a daily pill for 5 years.  Chemo was very hard, but I am doing great now.  My tumor was 5mm, ER/PR + and Her2 positive.  My Oncotype score was 31 because of the Her2 score only.  My margins and nodes were all clear.

  Because your cancer has spread to the lymph nodes, I would not take chances, but do all I could based on your general health and other characteristics to eradicate the cancer from your body now.  If it has a chance to grow elsewhere, you will be in a stage 4 situation, which is much more serious.

Talk with your doctors and keep an open mind to all treatment options.  We are here and will support you any way we can.  I am thinking of you.

[jet3]

Thank you for your support and advise, both are greatly appreciated.  I am definately leaning toward having the chemo due to having positive lymph nodes.