Diagnosed with DCIS: How do I decide on treatment?
I was diagnosed with DCIS. I have to go in for a breast MRI with contrast tomorrow to see how active the cancer is. If it’s contained and not very active, do I have to have a lumpectomy?
Interested in more discussions like this? Go to the Breast Cancer Support Group.
Femara is the brand name for letrozole. Docs seem to start with anastrazole. I have noticed some patients who have metastasis seem to take letrozole. I really don't know if one medication is better than another. Sorry! Exemestane is the third AI and is a little different.
Your oncologist (or someone else like if you prefer the surgeon) should be the coordinator of your care and should explain it to you. Make an appointment to go over it all and bring a friend or family member with you to take notes.
I am in a very similar situation. Wide excision biopsy removed the whole thing (4mm) that had shown up on my mammograph. I am 65 and not doing hormone blockers. I am not doing RA either- saving for future use if needed. I am a clinical researcher, and I think my decision is solid. As does my oncologist. But I feel like maybe I should do absolutely everything Available or else I’m tempting fate or in denial. It’s uncomfortable!
windyshores - Hi again. Just wanted you to know that I scheduled the appointment for new oncologist for Dec 20th. When I was asked if I would like to cancel the follow-up appointment with the other oncologist I said, “YES” !
@tctredwell hug and good luck!
I was recently diagnosed with DCIS stage 0 I had a mammogram and they saw it than,I had a ultrasound biopsy now going to have an MRI I’m so upset so they want to just remove part of my nipple and no radiation there’s absolutely no cancer in my cousins sisters or mother should they watch it or get a second opinion please help.
@magalinebell1958 I know how upsetting it is to have doctors tell you that you need to have surgery on your breast. Try not to Judge the plan yet, I would look to get a second opinion if possible before anything was done.
Cancer isn’t always hereditary, in fact many aren’t, most of my friends that have gotten cancer, did not have a family history. I am glad you are getting the MRI, as this can further diagnose or dispute diagnosis for you.
Since DCIS is a pre-cancer condition you have time to make he best decisions for yourself.
Are you comfortable with the doctor you have? Do you live in an area with access to a larger teaching hospital, or cancer center for a second opinion?
Thanks for the information I’m from a small town so I travel almost 2 hours to the cancer facility so I go on the 11 of January for my MRI.
I live in a rural area as well so I understand, it is about 1 1/2 hours for us. Our most awesome doctor is absolutely worth it. Please keep me posted about how you are doing.
Most definitely will