Taxol/Herceptin vs TCH

FlowerPower2

I apologize if this is discussed in another thread, but I don’t see it anywhere. Prior to bmx the MO stated I’d need TCH. After surgical pathology returned a second MO recommends Taxol x 12 and Herceptin.

DX IDC 1.5 cm, Stage1, Grade 3,ER+/PR+ HER+. Nodes negative, margins clear.

I’m confused by their differing recommendations and wonder if anyone else has had a similar experience? I want to be sure the treatment is “aggressive” enough. Thanks.

Ingerp

FP—all I can tell you is that after tons of research and a lot of time on this site, with my dx (same as yours!), I was fully expecting the Taxol/Herceptin regimen and that’s exactly what was recommended. Not sure why they were talking TCH but it seems like T/H is the standard protocol for triple positive, Stage 1, no node involvement

LoriCA

Your MO probably initially told you TCH because only about 20% of us are HER2+. HER2+ is a good thing because we have some fantastic targeted therapy drugs right now. Taxol with Herceptin is now the standard treatment for all HER2+, both early stage and metastatic. Targeted therapy means that it targets only the cancer cells instead of causing the widespread damage that standard chemo causes. It's much easier on your body, I have minimal side effects from it. If you were considered High Risk your MO would most likely add Perjeta to the mix, another targeted therapy drug.

if done as neoadjuvant treatment, you would typically also go back on Herceptin or Herceptin+Perjeta for one full year after surgery (adjuvant).