Significance of Complete Clinicopathologic Response

zuffa

I was originally diagnosed with LABC Stage III TN and had neoadjuvant TAC, then mastectomy/14nodes taken.  I have achieved a complete clinical and pathologic response with the chemo.  My tumor was extremely large (11cm).  I will be undergoing radiation. My doctors are ecstatic.  I am seeking information regarding the significance of complete response on overall/disease free survival in TN breast cancer patients.

cheranthia

Our odds for overall disease-free survival are very good if we achieve patholigical complete response to chemo. I don't remember the stats, but you might want to listen to the Living Beyond Breast Cancer teleconference on TNBC.

http://www.lbbc.org/content/news/april-teleconference-focused-on-triple-negative-breast-cancer-treatment-updates.asp?section_tag=G

Shirlann

I remember a few years ago we had a gal that had her tumor completely disappear after chemo (she had it before surgery).  The onc/breast surgeon operated anyway, but all that was there was necrotic (dead) tissue, she was ecstatic too.

Good for you!

Gentle hugs, Shirlann 

zuffa

Ladies- thank you for your responses.  I have also been reading journal articles/research studies that support the conclusion that complete path response is a good prognosticator for overall and/or disease free survival.  I was originally part of the December 2008 chemo group on these boards, but have been reading the triple neg boards without posting for quite some time.  Lots of good information and informed posters.