Resolved question:
My wife was diagnosed with stage II breast cancer. The doctors have conducted the operation and removed the lump. Two of her nodes was also removed which was positive. Her ER reports were 80% and PR came 70% and HER -2 was negative.
We also did her ki67 which came 30%. Does she has to undergo chemo and if yes how many section.
Submitted:
4 Days
Category:
Oncologist
Hello,
Thank you for your consult at DoctorSpring.com.
She may have to undergo 8 cycles of sequential chemo or 6 cycles of concurrent chemo with anthracycline and taxable based regimen with or without GCSF support ideally. However, your oncologist would be the best person to judge the regimen based on your wife's condition and other comorbid illnesses.
This needs to be followed with hormonal therapy for a minimum of 5 years.
Hope this helps, would be glad to answer any follow-ups.
Regards.
Can you also tell me what will be the side effect she will have to undergo. I know hair loss is major in that, but is there any medicine to prevent hair loss and is it advisable o take that. What are the precautions one need to take to reduce side effects. Can one travel long distance after each chemo. She will be taking chemo in India and we stay in Nigeria , can she travel and come back or she has to stay in one place.
Well, there are many complications that is expected when undergoing chemotherapy. Major issue being reduction in blood counts after chemo. Immunity is lowered and patient will be prone to develop serious infections. Loss of appetite and consequentially weight is another major complication during chemo. I am attaching the link which specifies toxicities as per each drug for easy understanding.
Complications vary based on each drug and the combination of drugs. Please let me know what drug combination is chosen.
http://www.cancer.org/cancer/breastcancer/detailedguide/breast-cancer-treating-chemotherapy
http://www.cancer.org/treatment/treatmentsandsideeffects/guidetocancerdrugs/doxorubicin
http://www.cancer.org/treatment/treatmentsandsideeffects/guidetocancerdrugs/paclitaxel
http://www.cancer.org/treatment/treatmentsandsideeffects/guidetocancerdrugs/docetaxel
Travelling will depend on her condition after chemo. If she is fit and able, then she can travel but it will be easier for her to stay in one place until she finishes chemotherapy.
I am a medical and radiation oncologist practising in Chennai, India. Please let me know if I can be of any help.
Wish you speedy recovery.
Regards.