The use of HRT after a LMP tumor removal

Hello!  At the end of July I had my uterus, ovary (had the other removed in 1999), appendix and omentum removed due to a complex cyst.  The diagnosis was that it was borderline malignant stage 1A.  I was very thankful and did not think much about it.  My doctor has now given me a HRT patch.  A friend told me that the patch could cause OVCA.  On the insert it does say that that is a possible side effect/complication.  My doctor says this is not true that the patch can only cause uterine cancer.  I am not sure what to do.  I have no ovary so can HRT still cause OVCA?  And, can it cause a recurrance in a borderline malignant tumor?  Can you even have a recurrance in a borderline malignant tumor if you have no ovary or uterus?  The problems with menopause are very sever for me.  I have bi-polar disorder and it seems to be triggered by the hormones gone crazy!  Any help you can give me would be appreciated!

[Annekathryn Goodman, M.D.]

Hi There,
Please see my comments for "Chemotherapy and estrogen replacement therapy" 9/9/2006.

I think it is fine and reasonable for you to be on estrogen. You no longer have your ovaries so whatever theoretical growth stimulation estrogen may have on ovaries does not apply to you. Remember the data on estrogen and ovarian cancer only applies to women in their 60s who have been on estrogen and progesterone for more than five years. There is alot of data that estrogen in the form of the birth control pill actually protects young women from ovarian cancer.

The risk of a stage 1a borderline tumor recurring is close to if not actually zero. You are in good shape!
best wishes

[debwmbg]

A related discussion, Yes, LMP tumors DO come back-3 more times for me was started.