ATM gene and Radiation

Susan72

Has anyone with the ATM gene variant or mutation gone forward with radiation? Did you have problems?

ck2day

I had one treatment so far and had major side effects after only one treatment.... Could ATM or PALB2 be the reason?

ck2day

yes

Mmesamom

I have a mutation on my ATM gene. I did my 13th radiation today. Just typical side effects, sunburn look and tired. Nothing out of the ordinary.

Metta

Susan, you're smart to ask this question; the few studies out there indicate that we should not be radiated because we can't repair damaged DNA. I consented to the prescribed five weeks, though, because node-positive women like me have a 25 percent chance of local recurrence without it. I have a variant of unknown significance on the ATM gene, but my radiation oncologist dismissed my trepidation.

I still feel uneasy about it, and the radiation experience was no picnic. Tons of tears. I'm fine so far, though. I'll let you know if and when I get cancer again (would it be breast cancer or a sarcoma?). Our options just stink, all of them.

BostonHomie

Revisiting this topic. Please point me to another active discussion if there is one.

Tested positive for the ATM defect. Invasive carcinoma, ER/PR +/HER2- stage 1. Lumpectomy completed. Post menopausal. Hormone therapy planned. Chemo not needed based on oncotype

Question is whether or not to have radiation which had been the plan until meeting with RO who raised concerns re: possible significant side effects due to the ATM defect. Alternative is mastectomy.

Second opinion with another RO scheduled.

Would love to hear from others who have been down this path. I need to decide soon.