Side effects of using Femara

[kumara]

I was diagnosed in October 2007 with early stage (2) breast cancer, no node involvement. Initially I had a lumpectomy, but due to lack of adequate margins had to have a mastectomy. I have not had chemo or radiotherapy, and have been taking Femara now for about 2 months.
I have noticed numerous tiny red spots appearing on my body. When I revisited my oncologist for the first time after taking Femara, he said these were age spots and I shouldn't be concerned.
I am not convinced as each day I notice more of these spots appearing.
Could any doctor here please advise me if I should be concerned or not.

Thank you

[BhumikaMD]

Hi,

Sorry for the late respnse to your query.

How are you doing now?

What are the exact values of the liver function tests? Has an ultrasound abdomen been done?

Femara is letrozole - the known side effects related to the skin include hot flushes. Red spots could more possibly be due to the liver involvement - but nothing can be said with surety without a detailed clinical examination and relevant investigations.

You should reconsult with your doctor or consult a gastro specialist if possible.

Let us know about what your doctor tells you and about how you are doing.

Also, post the reports to us.

Regards.

[kumara]

I'm thinking maybe my question would be better placed in another forum.
If I'm correct could someone please advise which forum is the best to use to get an answer to my original question....see previous posts above.

Many thanks.

[kumara]

I so wish I could get a response to my question. I had further blood tests and apparently those to do with my liver were high. Could these red spots appearing on my skin indicate a liver problem? Could it be due to taking Femara or indicative of some other problem?
I have private insurance but in all truth I'm finding the medical resources/speciliasts available in the country I live in (New Zealand) are just stretched to the limit, and I am reluctant to be a nuisance to them.

So if any doctor here could just give me some feedback about these red spots appearing daily on my skin, I would so appreciate it.

Thanks