Connect
← Return to Is there anyone that had estrogen positive cancer, without use of AI?
Discussion
Is there anyone that had estrogen positive cancer, without use of AI?
Breast Cancer | Last Active: Dec 15, 2023 | Replies (146)Comment receiving replies
Just found this site and discussion. I had stage 1 IDC 2.5 yrs ago, 2 cm (but 2 smaller lumps also detected when operated) lumpectomy followed by radiation for 3 wks.
AI was recommended, but as my Oncotype score was low (10) and I already was borderline osteoporosis, and hearing all the bad side effects, after consultation with my radio oncologist I decided to forego AIs. Lo and behold, 2.5 yrs later (now!) I just underwent 5 days ago a mastectomy due to recurrence in same place.
I underwent CT and bone scans and fortunately no spread detected. Am waiting to hear about nodes (axillary dissection). I will never know if taking the AI would have prevented this recurrence. I've almost convinced myself that it would not have. After I get thru this post-op discomfort, will indeed have to take the AIs. Worrying about spreading was terrifying.
Replies to "Just found this site and discussion. I had stage 1 IDC 2.5 yrs ago, 2 cm..."
Just curious ,were the other two lumps cancerous also and IDC? Also did you do lifestyle changes after your lumpectomy like diet, exercise and weight loss? So sorry for your recurrence. Glad it was only in your breast and hadn’t spread elsewhere . 💓
Connect
@cashemire so sorry you had this recurrence and hope all tests remain negative and reassuring.
I had an Oncotype score of 8 and already had osteoporosis, but did 5 years. I was unable to take Reclast (my doc did not want to risk afib) and ended up with fractures.
We basically choose our risks. Your cancer recurrence risk was low, and fracture risk high. You made a reasonable choice. The real problem is that we are left choosing between cancer and fractures- however small either risk might be. Fractures are potentially a bigger deal than I thought, to be honest. If I had known, I might have done things differently.
You should be fine taking an aromatase inhibitor at this point and there will be no doubt in your mind, so you will be committed to it. I hope you will let us know how things go!