I have recently been diagnosed with Stage III infiltrating ductal carcinoma. Both the surgeon and the oncologist say my tumor (approximately 10 cm. in a small breast)is too large to be operable at this time and must be shrunk first with chemo and radiation. My oncologist has given me a choice between Adriamycin (AC?)and CMF. At this point, Taxotere, tamoxifen, Taxol, etc are not being considered in my case.
What is it that causes weight gain in so many breast cancer patients who receive chemo? And how much weight is usually gained? Is this gain permanent or does it go away after treatment? Why is it that so many breast cancer patients gain weight from chemo, while people with other types of tumors, even though they may be on the same chemo protocols have trouble maintaining their weight?
Thanks.