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Is metastasis possible after treatment of early invasive breast cancer?

I had WLE & radiotherapy (40Gy in 15#) last year for a 5 mm grade 1 IDC -margins clear, 0/1 lymph node, ER8, HER2 -. I have asymmetry, rib pain & swelling & saw my surgeon for a review. Ultrasound shows inflammation, course calcification with a vessel in one quadrant & possible post-radiotherapy costochondritis but no discrete lesions in the sternum. I've been referred for a full body bone scan, to correlate with a CT. I have severe arthritis. Why is it necessary to scan for metastasis?
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Avatar universal
Perhaps not necessary, but prudent.
Helpful - 0
25201 tn?1255580836
With the symptoms stated above plus the word "possible" stated in the report it seems that further investigation is a good idea. Many Oncologists/ Surgeons will recommend a yearly scan after any treatment for BC. I see that this will also be used to match the previous CT; to either agree or disagree since additional findings may be discovered. Do you have some specific reason for not being amenable to a full body bone scan ? I feel that is a case of leaving no stone unturned and no doubt regarding the rib pain. If you do not agree then by all means discuss this fully with either your Surgeon and/or the Radiologist.  Best wishes for a good outcome.
Helpful - 0

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