CommunitiesIn Treatment For Breast CancerDid you experience uncertainty in your breast cancer treatment options?

Did you experience uncertainty in your breast cancer treatment options?

CR

Community Member

2 years ago

Did you have lots or any gray zones? I have HR + HER 2-, stage 1a/b breast cancer grade 2 t size 2.8cm (largest of 3). I know I have endocrine therapy in my future but I have had all the gray areas that the 7 (yes 7!) oncologists and 3 radoncs I’ve met disagree on next step treatment. Some say yes to chemo cuz of LVI, isolated tumor cells (technically not lymph node positive but not totally negative even though they consider it so) multi focal on left breast though a surprising second cancer found in right after DMX and high ki67 even though my oncotype of 18 suggests not needing it (though I’m premopausal at 51). Of the med oncs I’ve seen 4 say no 3 say yes to chemo. Complicating things further I did a double mastectomy in September. I got clear margins on LVI but not DCIS. My surgeon wants to watch and see those and the 3 Radoncs I’ve seen also have different thoughts. 1 says radiation regardless. 1 says go back to surgery to get clean margins and then no radiation. The last says do the surgery and let me see the pathology after then I will give you an opinion. I’ve been put in the position to figure out what I want to do and make a plan. While I know I should be grateful that I have choices, I also don’t want to choose wrong and I’m freaking out! Has anyone else had a situation like this and how did you decide??

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accepted answer

Accepted Answer

Having multiple medical opinions that don't align can feel overwhelming and create so much stress during an already challenging time. Many patients face these gray areas where treatment decisions aren't clear-cut, and it's completely understandable to feel anxious about making the "right" choice when experts disagree. Consider seeking a consultation at a comprehensive cancer center or asking your most trusted oncologist to help you weigh the pros and cons of each approach based on your specific situation and personal values.

3+ patients found this helpful

ME

Community Member

6 months ago

What are gray zones? Does that have to do with dense breasts?

CA

Community Member

2 months ago

Having multiple medical opinions that don't align can feel overwhelming and create so much stress during an already challenging time. Many patients face these gray areas where treatment decisions aren't clear-cut, and it's completely understandable to feel anxious about making the "right" choice when experts disagree. Consider seeking a consultation at a comprehensive cancer center or asking your most trusted oncologist to help you weigh the pros and cons of each approach based on your specific situation and personal values.

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