What treatment should I choose for DCIS with complex medical history?

Talk to all the specialists available about mastectomy versus lumpectomy, the risks, benefits, etc. after u see one, you may have questions the next one can answer. I had DCIS diagnosed after a lumpectomy for a different condition. (Also have a disabled adult child so my decision needed to consider him and his needs.) I talked to my surgeon and was so confused. She recommended i see radiation and medical oncologists before i decided on a treatment course. The three of them together helped me with my decision.

Thank you for the information. I will update on my first appointment I went down a rabbit hole in the internet and so much information and opinions. May I ask what was your final decision?

Certainly. I initially planned to have a double mastectomy. I wanted to avoid going thru the same experience again. The surgeon told me the mortality rate was the same for lumpectomy/radiation/endocrine therapy versus mastectomy. She said 3%. I went down the research rabbit hole too. I wanted to find out why the rate was the same if there are fewer recurrences with mastectomy. The surgeon told me post mastectomy exams are by palpation only. Then I saw some studies that reported post mastectomy recurrences as presenting more advanced that post lumpectomy recurrences. Not many studies, but a few. I did NOT see a definitive answer but in my mind there was a hint in this direction. When i asked, both oncologists told me that post mastectomy recurrences “could be harder to treat.” In the end, i felt safer keeping my breast and having regular mammograms. DON’T take this as an established truth. Discuss recurrences with your doctors. And the best source of medical studies is the national library of medicine’s database, pub med. i had 4 weeks of whole breast radiation and continue to take aromatase inhibitors. Am post menopausal.

Also, if you have a trusted family member or friend, ask them to come with u to appointments. My adult daughter volunteered to come with me to appts and it helped so much. She remembered stuff i forgot, asked questions I didn’t think of and was someone i cd talk with afterwards.

Thank you for all the information just very anxious. Will post tomorrow after 1st appointment.

Good luck. Will be thinking of you.

Today I have my breast oncology appointment feeling anxious the hormone part of the biopsy are still pending it’s been 2 weeks has anybody her have to wait that long?

The DCIS diagnosis was sooner but i think the hormone results took well over a week

Estrogen and progesterone positive doing genetic testing still not decided weighing my options for treatment.

Hi Cynthia, I was diagnosed with that in 2022, I had a double mastectomy. But my reconstruction surgeon wasn't very good,his arrogance was in the way. I'm now trying to have the implants removed or re-done. I pray for a speedy recovery for you.

Thank you Mary I’m still undecided of implants or diep flap.

my breast surgeon explained that procedure to me and my husband. By the time she finished, I just flat out said no, which led me to do the quickest procedure. I sometimes have regrets because of how my breasts look. My actual surgery was in January of 2023, taking Letrozole, having hot flashes again. I was 58 when I had the procedure, I'm 62 now and glad being alive. Pray about it, God will give you the answers.

Your upcoming appointment with the breast oncologist will be so important for getting the specific guidance needed for your unique situation. Having a complex medical history adds extra considerations to treatment decisions, and your doctor will be able to weigh all the factors specific to your case. Many people find it helpful to write down their questions beforehand and bring a trusted person to the appointment if possible - the decision between lumpectomy and mastectomy is significant, and having support during these discussions can be valuable.