Breast Cancer Grade 3

[Farah85]

My mom was just recently was diagnsed with Breast cancer grade 3, the size of the cancer is 1 cm, does anyone knoow fast this type of cancer spreads? Any feed back on this is greatly appreciatd.

[Dennis MD]

Hi Farah.
I agree with the previous post.  The grade of the tumor is based on several parameters.  It includes mitotic count, nuclear pleomorphism, and tubule formation as evaluated by the pathologist.  A grade 3 tumor based on the Nottingham criteria is considered high grade and is an unfavorable prognostic factor.  This should be taken in the context of other prognostic factors like axillary lymph node involvement, tumor size, and age of the patient.  
There is a need to carefully and thoroughly discuss with the oncologist the treatment options for your mother, weighing the risks and benefits of each treatment modality.
Good luck.

[japdip]

Cancers can be aggressive and spread rather rapidly or not at all. There are many types and how aggressive the cancer is depends on many factors. When cancer is discovered then it is certainly wise to follow whatever recommendation for surgery, radiation and/or chemotherapy following surgery has been made. Lymph nodes (one or several) are also removed to be tested for cancer at the time of whatever surgery is recommended. This could be either a lumpectomy or mastectomy; whichever is most appropriate for the individual pt.  Regards ..