Stage 4 TNBC and Necrotic cells

Posted by moonkryptonite @moonkryptonite, Jul 28, 2023

My daughter was recently diagnosed with Stage 4 Triple Negative Breast Cancer - it has spread to her liver, lungs, and bones. We were told this week that her tumor has necrotic cells ... in the shock of all of this, we didn't ask questions that we now have. Does anyone know exactly what this means? I know that necrotic cells are cells that are dying off - however I would like to know what it means for my daughter. PLEASE do not sugarcoat anything - honesty is best with me.

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windyshores | @windyshores | Jul 28, 2023

"Necrotic cells are dead cells that have undergone necrosis, a form of cell death with necrotic morphology1. Tumor necrosis, foci of necrotic cell death, occurs in advanced solid tumors and is often associated with poor prognosis of cancer patients." https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6946014/

Stage 4 triple negative that has spread to her liver, lungs, and bones with necrotic cells would seem to be a pretty advanced situation. There may be treatments available to give her time. I know a woman who got 10 years with stage 4. But we are lay people on here. What do the doctors say? I hope they are being honest with you and your daughter.

Is she having treatment? What kinds of support does she have? I am so sorry you and your daughter are in this situation.

anjalima | @anjalima | Jul 29, 2023

I believe Windyshores has answered your question. The trauma of hearing your daughter’s diagnosis is why you did not ( could not) ask relevant questions.

I would suggest you go back to your oncology doctors immediately with someone who is involved in a caring way but a bit removed ( a very close friend for example) and can bring your questions up one by one … it’s very difficult to “ take in” some answers in a trauma state, and then lose the ability to ask all the questions.

As you have a diagnosis you need to be exploring ( and possibly demanding) whatever treatment may be available ASAP .

Best to you and your daughter. I hold you both in my heart. 💕