Post-Surgery Treatment Options for Breast Cancer - Oncology

More Info

---

When it comes to post-surgery treatment options for breast cancer, particularly in the case of your mother who is 60 years old and has undergone a total mastectomy, there are several important factors to consider. The tumor size of 0.7 cm and the absence of lymph node metastasis are positive indicators, but the HER2+++ status indicates that the cancer is HER2 positive, which can influence treatment decisions significantly.

HER2 positive breast cancer is known to be more aggressive than HER2 negative types, and it often requires a more intensive treatment approach. The recommendation for chemotherapy combined with hormone therapy is based on the need to address both the aggressive nature of HER2 positive cancer and the hormone receptor status. In your mother's case, with estrogen receptor (ER) positivity at 10% and progesterone receptor (PR) positivity at 40%, hormone therapy could be beneficial, but it may not be sufficient on its own.

Chemotherapy is often recommended for HER2 positive breast cancer because it can help to reduce the risk of recurrence by targeting any remaining cancer cells after surgery. While it is true that chemotherapy can affect both healthy and cancerous cells, the goal is to maximize the destruction of cancer cells while minimizing damage to healthy tissues. The combination of chemotherapy and targeted therapy (like trastuzumab, commonly known as Herceptin) is particularly effective for HER2 positive breast cancer, as it specifically targets the HER2 protein on cancer cells, leading to better outcomes.

If the health insurance does not cover targeted therapy, it is essential to discuss this with the oncologist. They may have alternative options or financial assistance programs that could help manage the costs. It is also important to weigh the risks and benefits of foregoing chemotherapy. While hormone therapy alone may seem appealing, it may not provide the same level of protection against recurrence in HER2 positive cases.

In summary, while it is understandable to have concerns about the side effects of chemotherapy, it is crucial to follow the oncologist's recommendations based on the specific characteristics of the cancer. The treatment plan should be tailored to your mother's individual situation, taking into account her overall health, the specific cancer biology, and her preferences. Engaging in a thorough discussion with her healthcare team about the potential benefits and risks of each treatment option will help in making an informed decision that aligns with her treatment goals.