Are there any MS women who can share experience with breast cancer treatment?

[jumpinjiminy]

I was dx with MS last year and now this year with breast cancer. It's very early, DCIS, but the options seem daunting and excessive for such a small spot of cancer. Due to a number of contraindications, bilateral mastectomy with sentinel node biopsy is looking like the best option to reduce risk of recurrence. The issue with this is the length of surgery with reconstruction is five hours. Their concern is how will the MS respond to this and will it be possible to endure that long of a surgery without complications.

Has anyone been through this that could share their experience?

[jumpinjiminy]

You did have an extensive surgery. Do you remember how many hours they had you under for it? How long did the MS symptoms continue after surgery?

I'm so back and forth over this decision. I've decided to put off any further thinking on it until I see the other consults.

[HVAC]

On the surgery front. I have Ovarian Cancer and have had the full hysterectomy with tubes, ovaries a, the omentum (lining of all your organs), and part of my rectum removed. I was in the hospital a week. My MS acted up right after surgery making it hard to get in and out of bed since my left side was weak. Other than that no real problems. I have been in continuous chemo for three years and no real problem with MS.
I tried to get my oncologist to talk to my MS Specialist but he refused. He in his words knew everything about MS. Because of your arm muscles you will have more challenges. I am so sorry you have to go through this.

Alex

[jumpinjiminy]

I've looked around online, but haven't yet talked with any of the specialists for their input. There doesn't seem to be much information other than there's a higher risk for hyperkalemia from the surgery depending on the anesthesia used. That's the most MS specific info I could find on risks for surgery.

This is one of those cancer/precancer questions, and it doesn't seem that even the professionals can decide on whether or not to consider it cancer.

[supermum_ms]

I'm so sorry you've also been diagnosed with breast cancer!

**********HUGS*********

I was hoping someone would reply but i suspect medhelp doesn't currently have anyone with personal breast cancer and MS experience, i can't actually recall anyone specifically with breast cancer posting in the MS community before. Have you tried connecting with people in any of the bigger MS specific sites eg MS World or speaking to your local MS society for advice?

Hugs.........JJ