Margins for BCS

[Jordymom]

I have bilateral intermediate grade DCIS (1.5 cm on left, .5 cm on right).  After a number of surgeries I have +1cm margin on right, but around 2mm margin on the left.  On the right I have ADH transected at the specimen.  On both right and left I have plenty of other proliferative changes including atypical lobular hyperplasia, more ADH, cysts, adenosis, fibroadenoma, etc.

I am preparing for bilateral radiation but concerned over the margin on left and remaining ADH on right.  I am 48 and the DCIS is ER and PR positive, so I would take Tamoxifen.

Am I at an increased risk of local recurrence based on 2 mm margin, my age (premenopausal) or known ADH remaining in breast or does the whole breast radiation take care of these issues (well, except for the age)?  

Thanks.

[Cleveland Clinic]

Dear Jordymom:  Atypical Ductal Hyperplasia is not cancer.  However, it is frequently associated with the development of cancer.   The criteria for clean margins can vary from institution to institution but 1mm is often considered a clean margin.  So, in theory, if all the DCIS is removed and there is no invasive cancer, radiation should reduce the risk for local recurrence.  Tamoxifen is given to help prevent more breast cancer from developing.

[carme]

Bi-lateral mastectomies.......................!

[Jordymom]

Carme,

Are you speaking from experience??

I would be interested in your story.

Thanks!