BREAST CANCER EXPERT FORUM
Recurrence and Chemo

Recurrence and Chemo

I am a 53 yr old who had a ductal carcinoma 3 years ago.  I had a lumpectomy, (1 of 10 nodes had cancer), followed by chemo (CMF-8 treatments) and radiation.  Then I started on tamoxifen which I still take.
I underwent a mastectomy this week for a 1.4 tumor recurrence in the same spot.  No other cancer in breast.  Four nodes were taken and were clear.  All C.T. tests, bone scan, chest x-ray and blood work were good.  My question is - Do I need to have chemo again?
My oncologist has suggested AC.  I am afraid of heart complications.I have a strong family history of heart problems.  How will taking this improve my chances? What percentage?  Is it worth the risk?
My surgeon has hinted that the radiation failed - not the chemo.
Are there other things I should be taking instead of tamoxifen?
If I have a metastactic cancer later- is it true that I would not be able to be treated with Adriamycin again? I don't want to do chemo again as just a precautionary measure but if it is needed I will. I'm afraid of other serious things it might to do me.  I am also non-insulin dependent diabetic.
Related Discussions
Avatar_n_tn
Dear AnnMarie, There is not a direct answer as to whether or not you need chemotherapy again.  The decision to do so will need to take into account your personal situation and risk factors, weighed against the benefit
2 Comments
Blank
Avatar_n_tn
I am a male with breast cancer and also a liver transplant recipient.  Had a masectomy and 11 nodes out of 18 were positive.  Chemo is a big risk because to my liver.  Could I only take hormonal therapy like tamoxifen or other type of drug or what that not be effective.  Don't know whether cancer has metasitized.  Thank you.
Blank
Continue discussion Blank
Go
MedHelp Health Answers
Submit
Blank
Weight Tracker
Reach your weight goal faster
Start Tracking Now
RSS Expert Activity
1741471_tn?1336957856
Blank
LIVE WEBINAR TOMORROW!-SUPER BODY, ... Blank
May 22 by Michael Gonzalez-WallaceBlank
2126606_tn?1335910182
Blank
Fibromyalgia Awareness
May 11 by Clare Waismann Kavin, RASBlank
2126606_tn?1335910182
Blank
Opioid-induced hyperalgesia reduces...
May 03 by Clare Waismann Kavin, RASBlank