Connect
No cancer found in lumpectomy tissue?
Three months ago I was diagnosed with DCIS in two locations after two mammograms and a core needle biopsy at each site (same breast). Surgeon recommended lumptectomy based on the total area (4cm) which was last week.
So, in my first post-op meeting today, the surgeon said the prelim pathology came back...interesting. Cancer free. She suspects that the biopsy removed the cancer.
Mind you, I had DCIS in two locations and a MRI that measured the area. My husband and I left there thinking, what are the odds? And how could this be? She is asking the lab to take additional cuts to make sure and we should hear from her in a few days, and the report could change.
Has anyone ever heard of this happening? I want to be prepared with questions to ask her when she calls back in case the findings don't change. My husband and I were shocked and speechless so we didn't ask many today.
Due to the size and grade, she recommended surgery in two stages to make sure we got clear margins so I'm having reconstruction surgery next week. Today she mentioned that I might not need radiation based on the pathology, too, which would be great.
What questions should I be asking when she calls back? Thank you!
Like
Helpful
HugInterested in more discussions like this? Go to the Breast Cancer Support Group.
Connect
Treatment was in order: chemo first, including Herceptin and Perjeta; Herceptin and Perjeta infusion lasted a year and was very easy; after chemo and while H and P infusions were in progress, had MRI which said clear. Lumpectomy anyway, then radiation ( I think it was everyday for 28 days, probably not weekends). After radiation, I took Arimidex for 5 years; that was tiring. Follow-up, now, consists of mammograms, blood work, an annual visit, and vitamin D.
I would add: when I was diagnosed, at age 64, (thin, good appearance, active in sporting activities, good social life, good diet) I was in the process of buying a house. I put the house buying on hold and concentrated on getting better. After the MRI and before the lumpectomy, I restarted the house buying process, mostly online. (How many hours a day can you watch Netflix.) I did drive buys when able. I found a house and made an offer. The day after my lumpectomy, still in bandages, and wearing my wig, I closed on a house and the next day, I moved. Was it a little much? Yes. But, I was ready to continue where I left off and never regretted this big decision. I'm 73 now and my PA continues to tell me that my prognosis is excellent. Life changes between 64 and 73, but cancer is not a concern of mine.
Good luck with your journey. Be patient. (You are patient, right?) Ask questions when you don't understand. If your hospital offers patient support activities, give them a try. I loved an activity called Laugh Yoga in which patients make themselves laugh. It's a type of laugh therapy; you can find examples of this on YouTube.
Happy Thanksgiving and hugs!