Will I need Chemo

[KelleyMitch]

Hi, I am 49 and recently diagnosed with BC.  My mother died at 61 after a 6 year battle.  My staging right now is pT1c - with clear margins and nodes.  I am just wondering if I can expect to have chemotherapy.  I am determined to have a double mastectomy with reconstruction.  I have had 2 cousins diagnosed in the past 2 years with different stages and different treatments.
Looking forward to hearing back,
Thanks

[nhagerty74]

I also wanted to add that with your family history, and now personal history, I completely agree with your decision to have a double mastectomy.  

[nhagerty74]

You should ask for the Oncotype DX test to determine your risk of distant recurrence.  My breast cancer was Stage 1, tumor was less than a cm, Clear nodes and margins, Her2 negative, ER/PR+, Oncotype score 9.  I was only 31 at the time and they wanted to give me chemo based on my young age until I asked for the Oncotype test.  I had lumpectomy, radiation, 4 years of tamoxifen...and I just celebrated 8 years cancer free!  You may want to also have the test for the breast cancer genes (brca) since your family history is so strong.  That result could help in making certain decisions in your treatment also.  Sending you love and strength...you can message me anytime if you'd like to talk.  Hang in there!

*Nikki

[zouzi]

One more thing to add.
Adjuvant chemo is usually recommended for larger tumors.
If the tumor is smaller than 1 cm (about ½ inch) across, adjuvant chemo is not usually offered. However Chemo is recommended if a cancer smaller than 1 cm has any unfavorable features (such as being high-grade, hormone receptor–negative, HER2-positive, or having a high score on a gene panel like Oncotype Dx).
As you can see many factors would determine if you need Chemo Therapy or not.
Hoping that you won't need to go through this,but "if" in your case, it helps to get rid of this disease ,then go ahead with it and do it, if your Oncologist recommends it.
Again wishing you all the best...

[kristy12]

It depends on her2 and hormone receptor status. If her2 negative, estrogen positive then usually no further chemotherapy.

[zouzi]

Hi,
Sorry to hear that you have been diagnosed with breast cancer :(
Concerning Chemo treatment,I think this should be determined by your Surgeon and Oncologist who have your complete medical record.They are the ones who will plan the best treatment available for your particular case.
I wish you well and prompt recovery!