Should I consider skipping chemo for TNBC with lymph node involvement?

This sounds like an incredibly overwhelming time with so many appointments and decisions to process quickly. Many people in this community have faced similar treatment decisions and understand the weight of choosing between aggressive treatments and quality of life considerations. The timing of these decisions can feel rushed, especially when there's still uncertainty about staging and spread. Treatment approaches for TNBC often vary based on individual factors that only medical teams can fully evaluate, which is why connecting with others who've navigated similar paths can provide valuable perspective and support during this challenging time.

I’ve had chemo for TNBC twice (9 years apart). Six months each time. It was doable both times and worked. I wouldn’t say it’s easy but I’d personally rather be safe than sorry. Options are sadly still limited for TNBC (in the uk at least). If it comes back again (and fingers crossed it won’t) I’d do chemo again. But it’s a very personal decision. I’d talk to your oncologist if you get the chance. I hope your treatment goes smoothly, whatever you decide ❤️

Thank you Sam that for sharing your experience. Did the recurrence happen in the same breast?

Yes. Very close to the original spot, same size and grade. No lymph node involvement

I did not have any chemo so far, I refused it however started an alternative way with an integrated therapy with mistle toe.

Margot how did you find out about that therapy? I have not heard about that.

KS, I also have triple negative breast cancer with BRCA 2 mutation, but mine was invasive ductal carcinoma, and I had the recommended double mastectomies because of the aggressive behavior and Ki of 95. My cancer was negative on a mammogram but thankfully found with my breast MRI, so tiny but aggressive. In surgery my margins and nodes were clean and initially I did not require chemotherapy. However within 10 months the cancer spread to one lymph node axillary and was necrotic. My CT scans were negative but thankfully the Dr listened to me, following up with my axillary pain and edema. My chemotherapy began, and this was a necessity. I had 6 months of aggressive intravenous chemo, and 3 months of oral chemo, all aggressively dosed. Triple negative is one of the most aggressive cancers and treatments are more limited than the hormone positive types. I also required aggressive radiation, even with the double mastectomies. 2 years later, I am continued on Lynparza to counter act the BRCA gene mutation. Not easy, but today I am very active and doing well. I get PET CT scans at least every 6 months or earlier if needed. I could not get immunotherapy, or Keytruda, because of autoimmune problems X 5 that could lead to sudden death. Your Oncology team will guide and support you. Best wishes and prayers. Cancer is a journey. Our choices are personal but please carefully weigh your options. I am a retired critical care RN of 46 years. I trust my Oncologist.

I've had TNBC twice, ten years apart and close to the same spot in the same breast. I opted for surgery the first time and skipped the chemo and radiation. This time with Ki67 of 65% it was really aggressive and had invaded my pectoral muscle. I don't have the gene but this time I agreed to do chemo based on how large the tumor was (2.97cm). Af five weeks I stopped treatment and opted for surgery. I chose not to follow up with oral chemo. These were all personal choices and based on information and test results. I am doing very well and am healthy again. There is life after chemo and getting through chemo is the hardest part. It is not for the faint of heart.