Stage III Breast Cancer: Treatment Progress and Concerns

Stage III breast cancer

I was diagnosed with stage III breast cancer in December.
The doctor said that after three rounds of chemotherapy, I would need surgery for removal.
Currently, I am undergoing chemotherapy every three weeks.
The doctor mentioned that I would noticeably feel the lump shrink, but after three rounds, I haven't felt any change in the size of the lump.
I am scheduled for my fourth round of chemotherapy tomorrow.
Throughout this period, I have communicated with my doctor that I haven't noticed any reduction in size, and it has been some time since my diagnosis.
Should I get a thorough examination to check for any signs of metastasis? However, the doctor responded that if there is metastasis, the treatment would be the same, so there is no need to rush.
Still, I genuinely feel that the treatment doesn't seem to be progressing.
Should I trust my doctor? How many rounds of chemotherapy do patients with stage III breast cancer typically undergo before surgery? Also, I haven't experienced much pain during chemotherapy; is this related to my individual constitution or the effectiveness of the medication? Thank you.

len, 40~49 year old female. Ask Date: 2006/03/16

Dr. Wu Jingtang reply Breast and Thyroid

Dear Miss Len,
For larger breast cancers, it is possible to first administer chemotherapy to shrink the tumor before surgical removal.
In some cases, we also incorporate concurrent radiation therapy to enhance the effect.
Most of our cases show a reduction in size after 3 to 4 cycles of chemotherapy; however, this can vary depending on the medications used and individual differences.
During chemotherapy, it is feasible to perform abdominal ultrasounds, bone scans, or tumor marker tests.
Of course, if there is metastasis, the treatment approach remains the same, but establishing a baseline can serve as a reference for future evaluations.
Each physician has their own perspective on treatment strategies, but larger hospitals typically have established treatment plans.
You may want to consult your physician regarding the proposed plan.
If the aforementioned tests have already been included, you can feel reassured and should proceed with complete treatment.
There have been significant advancements in breast cancer treatment in recent years, so you should have confidence and persist.
I'm cheering for you.

Wishing you a smooth treatment process,
Dr.
Wu

Reply Date: 2006/03/16

More Info

Understanding Stage III breast cancer can be a daunting experience, especially when you are undergoing treatment and trying to gauge its effectiveness. Stage III breast cancer is classified as locally advanced, meaning that the cancer has spread beyond the breast to nearby lymph nodes but has not yet metastasized to distant organs. The treatment typically involves a combination of chemotherapy followed by surgery, and sometimes radiation therapy.

In your case, you mentioned that you have undergone three cycles of chemotherapy and are about to start your fourth. It's important to understand that the response to chemotherapy can vary significantly from person to person. Some patients may notice a reduction in tumor size relatively quickly, while others may not see a noticeable change until later in the treatment process. The fact that you have not felt a decrease in the size of the lump after three cycles can be concerning, but it does not necessarily indicate that the treatment is ineffective.
Chemotherapy works by targeting rapidly dividing cells, which includes cancer cells, but it can take time for the effects to manifest. Additionally, the specific chemotherapy regimen you are on can influence how quickly you see results. Some regimens are designed to be less aggressive initially, with the expectation that they will build up effectiveness over time. If you are concerned about the lack of progress, it is reasonable to discuss this with your oncologist. They may recommend imaging studies, such as a CT scan or PET scan, to assess whether the cancer has spread or if the treatment is having the desired effect.

Regarding the typical number of chemotherapy cycles before surgery, it often ranges from four to six cycles, depending on the specific treatment plan and the individual’s response to therapy. Your oncologist will determine the best timing for surgery based on your response to chemotherapy and the overall treatment strategy.

As for your experience with chemotherapy, the level of discomfort or side effects can vary widely among patients. Some individuals may tolerate chemotherapy well and experience minimal side effects, while others may have a more difficult time. Factors such as your overall health, the specific drugs used, and your body's unique response all play a role in how you feel during treatment. If you are not experiencing significant side effects, it could be due to your individual tolerance or the specific regimen being used.

In conclusion, it is essential to maintain open communication with your healthcare team. If you have concerns about the effectiveness of your treatment or the possibility of metastasis, do not hesitate to voice these concerns. Your oncologist is there to help you navigate this challenging time and can provide reassurance or additional testing if necessary. Remember, each patient's journey with breast cancer is unique, and treatment plans are tailored to fit individual needs and responses. Stay proactive about your health, and trust in the expertise of your medical team as you continue your treatment journey.

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