Why Anastrazole if I Had a Bilateral Mastectomy

Posted by terricull @terricull, Feb 18 10:35am

I was diagnosed with DCIS and IDC, Estrogen + in my right breast in November 2024. I had a bilateral/double mastectomy with sentinal lymph node testing in December 2024. Cancer tumor was less than 8mm in size, and all tissue removal edges and lymph nodes were negative for cancer. Since I had both breasts removed, why do I need to take Anastrazole for 5 years? I'm already dealing with hot flashes from menopause and the Anastrazole makes them far more frequent.

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cjs123172 | @cjs123172 | Feb 19 5:16am

Since you didn't have chemo, the aromatase inhibitor reduces the chance of a metastatic recurrence. If a cancer cell escaped via the blood stream, then the meds will curtail growth since your cancer needs estrogen to grow. It's a preventative measure but an important one.

salamander | @salamander | 5 hours ago

I did not take it. I am two years out. Did not get breasts removed. Stage 0, IDC, er/pr +,
Her-, onco 17percent, lumpectomy with 5 rounds of high level radiation. 6mm, clear edges, no lymph involvement. Praying it does not come back.