Sentinel Node Results and Treatment

[NieceLynn]

This is the 2nd part to my first question.  The measurement was actually less than .2 mm.  And I just found out that my estrogen test was positive, but just on the borderline and my progesterone was negative.  My oncologist is recommending chemo, because of the positive node (even though it was micro).  Again, would most doctors agree with this?  He also is checking on a clinical trial (chemo drugs) that I might be a candidate for-is this a good idea? He also ordered a bone scan and chest x-ray, just as standard practice.  So, just to reiterate, my biggest question is that is chemo usually recommended for micro involvement of the 1st sentinel node?  Again I THANK YOU.

[slovak]

I had a microscopic cancer cell in my sentinel node, none in the other 2 they took out.  I did chemo and really did not want to-I was afraid, etc...  However, I am a year and 3 months out from my last chemo and I feel better than ever.  The way my oncologist explained it to me is that even though it was microscopic it still means it was traveling.  More than likely they got it all but there is still the chance that some made it to your blood stream, etc...  So as an "insurance policy" you need to do chemo.  I would actually have them hit me with their "big guns"  you are only 35 and have a lot of life left to live.  I did 8 rounds of chemo, it took about 6 months.  Do what your oncologist tells you to do, they are very smart doctors and usually treat you agressively because they know what a bear a cancer cell can be.  Deal with it now, have them hit you with their best shot.  Then put it behind you and you will be so glad you did, I am.

[CCF-RN,MSN-rf]

Dear NieceLynn:  In most cases, lymph node involvement is an indication for chemotherapy (although the general health of the patient is considered as well).  Clinical trials can be a good option because it helps us to answer questions that will help many people in the future and, there may be benefit to you as well.