Invasive ductal carcinoma and length of radiation treatment

cctoo
I think "extra nodal extension" might be the same as what happened to me when the cancer broke out of the lymph node. My radiation was on the front and back as well as armpit area for 30 days. The first time you go in, they do a set up taking imaging so they can decide how to have you positioned on the table and also to do the tattoos which pinpoint where the radiation goes. When you return for your actual sessions, you will be positioned in the same way each time. It is very methodical. I did all right but at one point the burns got a bit uncomfortable but the doctor wrote a prescription for a cream that helped. I had also been using aloe as well as calendula cream that were recommended. Only you can decide whether you undergo radiation. Have a conversation with your oncologist and radiation oncologist. Best regards to you.

thank you. was yours on left side? Concerned about heart damage. and lung

did you have to hold your breath?

@cctoo
Sorry - I cannot remember...it's been about 4 years now.

I finished 15days of radiation treatment 12/1/22. I had stage 2 with positive lymph nodes. Radiation was done after surgery and removing the positive residual nodes. I was told by radiation oncologist 3wks was standard for my case. I am being treated at mayo.
Also the radiation oncologist described it as applying weed killer after you remove the weeds.

Did you do lumpectomy?

Yes, outpatient lumpectomy and lymph node removal on 12/21/2021 then radiation in Feb 2022. Started Anastrozole in March

Stage 1a er/pr+ her2- left side lumpectomy with IORT. Negative lymph nodes. But margin was not clear so had 2nd surgery. Genomic test came back positive for risk of recurrence so had TC chemo x 4 and radiation 5days/week for 3 weeks. Cardiologist did echocardiogram after treatment to reassure me no heart damage. I still think about it though. Anasterole daily for 5 years.

article from A!erican Heart Assn. said damage can come years later. Said women die from heart much more than cancer and may be overtreated for bc.

Progesterone positive ductal carcinoma in situ none in breast, surgery to remove them no tumor just calcifications stage 0… should I have to have radiation with endocrine therapy??