Member Comments are provided by individuals and reflect their personal opinions only. Under NO circumstances should you act on any advice or opinion posted in this forum. ALWAYS check with your personal physician before taking any action regarding your health! MedHelp International and our partners, sponsors and affiliates have no obligation to monitor any comments posted on this site, or the content and/or accuracy of such exchanges. MedHelp International does not endorse the views of any user.
Breast Cancer (Expert Forum)
chemo IV or not
Answered by
Cleveland - OH
Questions posted in the Breast Cancer Forum are answered by medical professionals from The Cleveland Clinic. Topics include Breast Biopsy, Chemotherapy, Hormone Therapy, Lumps, Lumpectomy, Lymph node dissection, Lymphedema, Mammograms, Mastectomy, Radiation Therapy, Reconstruction, Self Breast Exam, and Surgery.
Doctor's Answer
by Cleveland Clinic, Jul 06, 2009 08:39AM
, Jul 06, 2009 08:39AM
Dear mary: Whether or not chemotherapy will be recommended depends upon several factors, including size of the tumor, type of tumor, lymph node status, and several other factors that would be on the pathology report. Yes, there are both oral and IV chemotherapies but the recommendation is not based on how a drug is delivered (by mouth or IV) but, rather, based upon the efficacy for the disease. Because a drug is oral does not mean it is less strong or easier to take. In contrast, you may be recommended to have endocrine therapy (hormone therapy). Most of these drugs are oral and would be given after chemotherapy (if chemotherapy is recommended) for a period of about 5 years. You should discuss your concerns with your oncologist, who can better answer your questions as they specifically relate to your situation.
Member Comments (2)
by carol05, Jul 02, 2009 07:51PM
To: mt
I have the same size lump and same results for estrogen/HER as you. I will have surgery in about 2 weeks. Did you have any lymph nodes removed? I would be wondering about the type of chemo also. Glad you asked that question. I was diagnosed with invasive ductal carcinoma, early stage 1 - 2. I am waiting on biopsy results on calcifications in the same breast.
