Community Member
a year agoOn October 1, I had a lumpectomy to remove a 1.1 cm tumor, IDC , ER/PR+, and HER-. Nodes are negative based on contrast MRI. I'm post menopause. I met with my radiology oncologist yesterday. He recommends a 5-day course of targeted IMRT radiation if my oncotype score is low. Targeted IMRT sounds good. Has anyone had experience with that? I'm curious about what to expect.
Accepted Answer
Targeted IMRT radiation is becoming more common for early-stage breast cancer because it can focus treatment on the specific area while minimizing exposure to surrounding healthy tissue. Many community members have shared experiences with shorter radiation courses, and it might be helpful to connect with others who've been through similar treatment protocols. The 5-day approach can offer convenience compared to traditional longer schedules, though each person's experience with side effects and recovery can vary based on their individual situation and treatment plan.
3+ patients found this helpful
Community Member
6 months agoI received this in August. 5 days every other day. No issues. After the final one it just looked like I got too much sun but a week later it was gone.
Community Member
6 months agoThank you, Jennifer. I'm going to a breast cancer center, and the radiology oncologist spoke to the surgeon prior to surgery. During surgery, the surgeon placed a VeraForm line around the tumor site. I think it makes targeting easier. I believe I may also need local marks on the skin. I'm happy to be at a center where the doctors work as a team.
Community Member
6 months agoJennifer Did you have any fatique from the IMRT?
Community Member
6 months agoYes they removed my tumor and put something in that area so they can see then I got some tattoos (pink) for the mapping. Can’t see them they are tiny. I was never tired. My husband actually thought I had more energy. I run so having the 5 day treatment didn’t interfere with exercise. I’m just trying to hard to not let this get to me. Work through it, feel sorry for myself here and there but mostly power on and enjoy more
Community Member
6 months agoJennifer Did you get AI treatment after the IMRT? I'm post menopause and just got my oncotype score of 21. Not sure I want to go on estrogen suppressing drugs.
Community Member
6 months agoI’m 51 but still pre menopause. I’m on Tamoxifen. My Onco score was 16. My only side effect was weight loss, so I am happy. I haven’t had any hot flashes or night sweats. Nothing. My Oncologist said most women don’t I was sick hearing about all the problems but it ended up being nothing. You won’t know until you try. I will most likely go on AI in 2-3 years once I’m in menopause.
Community Member
6 months agoI had similar cancer and lumpectomy. 8 weeks radiation and also post menopause. 10 years. Hand in there.
Community Member
6 months agoPost menopause. Had same diagnosis last December had surgery February and March went through radiation 14 rounds. The first half the radiation was fine. The second half of the radiation became a little bit uncomfortable. It feels like you’re a little bit on fire in the breast tissue, but it’s been radiated, so that makes sense.  it’s now October and my breast tissue is still tender so I’m putting off my first mammogram until January. Hoping that that will be less painful. All of my doctors are on board with that. Just started my blocker two weeks ago having no issues. For vaginal health which you need to take care of so it doesn’t break down, I take Testosterone pills, use a testosterone cream and Estradiol Vag Pills that you insert. It all helps with dryness wonderfully, and doesn’t compromise your health as Testosterone doesn’t convert.
Community Member
2 months agoTargeted IMRT radiation is becoming more common for early-stage breast cancer because it can focus treatment on the specific area while minimizing exposure to surrounding healthy tissue. Many community members have shared experiences with shorter radiation courses, and it might be helpful to connect with others who've been through similar treatment protocols. The 5-day approach can offer convenience compared to traditional longer schedules, though each person's experience with side effects and recovery can vary based on their individual situation and treatment plan.
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