Partial Breast Radiation (Mammosite)

[sophie305]

I was diagnosed with DCIS on 04Dec09 and had a lumpectomy on 15Dec09.  At first I was happy to hear I am a "potential candidate" for partial breast irradiation (using Mammosite or comparable) which seemed like a great idea.  Now I'm not so sure after doing a good deal of internet surfing on the subject.  I'm reading about potential after-effects e.g., chronic cysts in the site and medical authorities who still feel there is not enough evidence to claim that this treatment has the same overall success rate i.e., not enough years of data.  What are the latest studies showing?

[dalecar]

I, too, have just been diagnosed with DCIS and am being worked up for surgery. While I understand the pitfalls of internet surfing, I, too, would like to know what scientifc data are being amassed on the various forms of radiation treatment. I know I can ask my physicians about this, but I like to see things in writing. I have been searching for actual investigative reaearch and have found very little documenting the relative outcomes of these methods (or, for that matter, success rates and follow-up on specific methods).

Can you or anyone point me to some of the actual data that are out there?

[japdip]

I never advise a pt. to do much internet surfing ..... there is so much information out there that only applies in one or two cases. I think you would be well advised to discuss your concerns about "mammosite" with your Radiation Oncologist in detail. I'm quite sure that in certain instances there may be complications just as in every form of Medical Treatment. Unless you specifically have been included in the studies you refer to I would be reluctant to apply them to your particular situation.  Your Oncology Team would be your best source of information.      Regards .....