surgical margins

My wife had lumpectomy (left segmental mastectomy)in May 2002. I would like to know what the margin info in the surgical and pathology notes means.

Regarding Frozen Section:  Specimen inked as per protocol. 3.5 cm. tumor indentified extending close to deep margin of resection grossly.

The report goes on to say in the Gross Descritpion:  "on sectioning, a gray-white, circumscribed tumor is noted measuring 3.5 cm. which extends close to the deep resected margin."

Then under diagnosis the report states:  

"the tumor extends less than 1mm. but not to the deep margin of resection. (6) T04030-M8500/3

"no angiolymphatic or perineural invasion is identified"

"inked margins and section of skin, negative for tumor"

Does all this mean there were close margins or cancer outside of the tumor?  Also what is the significance, if any, of the lack of angiolymphatic or perineural invasion?  Thank you for your assistance.

[CCF-RN,MSN-rf]

Dear manson:  A clear or "safe" margin is considered to be 1mm or greater.  Therefore, the deep margin is closer than that on the report.  To try to clarify, if you can imagine the tissue that was removed.  Within that tissue, there are cancer cells (remember tumors are not necessarily round and the tissue may not look much different than other tissue to the naked eye).  The edges of the tumor and the tissue are checked for cancer cells and measured.  This determines the margin.  In some cases radiation could be considered but this should be discussed with the oncologist.  No angiolymphatic or perineural invasion means that there is no evidence that the cancer has invaded the blood or lymph vessels or nerves.

[Binkie]

I can only tell you by this note:

     "no angiolymphatic or perineural invasion is identified"

that she has clear lymph nodes. No cancer in her lymph nodes under her arm which is great. Was she actually told she Has cancer or a cyst?

[ev900]

Hi Binkie how do you know so much on this topic? just curious your very helpful to alot.

[Binkie]

Well, I hope to help. I don't know much; I just do searches for people. And take words apart to help decipher their meaning.
Only experience I've had is losing my best friend and looking up her chemo-induced illnesses for 2 years.
I hope you're doing ok. I'm having some company in a little while if I don't get back to you soon. Best Wishes