Had IDC, but, Worried I Might Now Have IBC

Anonymous

Had IDC, but, Worried I Might Now Have IBC

DancingElizabeth

Hi All,

I was originally dx with Stage 3 A IDC. I had mastectomies, chemo and radiation. I had breast expanders put in. Over the past few months - I've had redness, slight swelling and tenderness on my right breast. And, the skin feels warm. I've had 2 ultrasounds done and both times was told this is not cancer. But, likely an infection from my expanders. And, I took antibiotics and it cleared up. My MO felt that it is likely not cancer.

But, it happened, AGAIN, a couple days ago: redness, swelling, warm to the touch and tender. My MO ordered another ultrasound- to be done as soon as possible. I thought it might be radiation recall but my MO told me it's not radiation recall. But, probably an infection. I asked her about the possibility of IBC and she doesn't "think" it is IBC. So, I guess she isn't sure or she would have said it isn't IBC... :-(

I googled my symptoms and am scared to death that this could be IBC!!! Any thoughts???? What really freaks me out is the fact she wants an ultrasound - ASAP!

ChiSandy

Until further testing (the ultrasound), it’s impossible to prove a negative; hence your doctor’s not immediately ruling out IBC. It’s most likely mastitis…an infection, from your expanders. It can occur months or more later. The ultrasound would confirm the presence or absence of cysts that could indicate infection and its precise location. Your first antibiotic might have mopped up most of the infection, but some remaining bacteria could have been resistant. A remote possibility is an inflammatory reaction (but NOT inflammatory breast cancer); your immune system might be rejecting the implants, recognizing them as "foreign bodies" and trying to protect your own tissue from them. You might need a different type or brand of implant (even the surface texture can make a difference); or once the infection clears, reconstruction using your own tissues, which cannot be rejected. There are other antibiotics that could work too.

Stay away from “Dr. Google.” He is an idiot, without a filter to distinguish credible information from garbage, and without guidance to help you understand that information.

Scwilly

Please take comfort in that IBC does not clear up then return. So your symptoms point to infection/inflammation. Obviously, I can't give a dx or any guarenteees, but I would say it's very highly unlikely to be IBC. Your upcoming ultra sound should help get to the bottom of things.

Of course you are worried, with all you've been through. I remember the marathon of Chemo, surgery and radiation! Also the feeling of vulnerability once that was over.

ChiSandy gives good advice and definitely stick to this board and give "Dr Google" a wide birth.

DancingElizabeth

Thanks Scwilly and ChiSandy for your kind words and advicere!It really helps!