Stage 1 Breast Cancer Treatment

I have had a lumpectomy - tumor characteristics as follows: 1.4 cm, invasive ductal carcinoma, poorly differentiated, HER2 +++, estrogen 80% progesterone 20% positive.  I understand that chemotherapy is the standard treatment, naturally I would prefer otherwise.  What chemo drugs and regimen would you suggest to be the most effective?  What side effects can I expect? Thank you!

[CCF-RN,MSN-rf]

Dear PEK:  There are several possible options that might be considered in a situation such as yours, so it would not be appropriate to recommend any specific regimen.  A possible regimen could include adriamycin, cytoxan, and taxol.  Other drugs that might be considered would be taxotere and, depending on protocols, herceptin.  You should discuss the possibilities with your oncologist.  Side effects would certainly depend on the drugs you are prescribed.  You can learn more about side effects of specific chemotherapy drugs on www.chemocare.com.

[PEK]

Thank you!  It's good to get a feel for what may be in store. I will check with my oncologist, and also get a second opinion.

[cuba]

I have been diagnosed with stage 1 breast cancer, invasive ductal carcinoma. The tunor size which was malignant was under 5 centimeters. Negative on the Sentinel node negative on the hormone receptors as well as the her2. I had a lumpectomy and the latest brachy (catheter only)localized radiation, 10 sessions of that.

NOW! I am looking at a very aggressive chemo being that the Doctors say that my cells seem to be quite aggressive under the microscope. Which I am ready and willing to give it all I got to not allow this uninvited person back...

Having said that can anyone comment on the following... I was just told by 2 Doctors that the chances of a reoccurrence is about 15% and with chemi it minimizes the chances by 5%. Here is the part 2 question they said if after the chemo it does come back they have no treatment for it that;s it they cannot help me..

PLEASE! Can anyone give anfeedback or experiences on the above mentioned...It's pretty overwhelming and scary to be told that!

Thank you so much!