Multifocal High Grade DCIS

klapham

I had a lumpectomy last Friday for DCIS. The Dr called today to let me know he did not get clear margins and I have what is called multifocal high grade dcis. He is recommending a mastectomy at this point. I was under the impression that I would just need radiation after the lumpectomy. I would appreciate any feedback from anyone with this diagnosis or if anyone still had radiation treatment after a mastectomy. Thank you!

TrmTab

I had multifocal, and had a second LX...it also did not have clear margins, so did have a MX...but as there were 2 LXs and only DCIS found in the pathologies, I did NOT have any lymph nodes taken so didn't have any risk of lymphodema and after the MX no need for radiation.

LAstar

I also had multifocal DCIS, and my 2nd LX was also not clear. Unfortunately, MX is often an outcome of DCIS because it is more widespread throughout the ducts than higher stage tumors that present as a lump. Radiation is not an option until margins are clear.

I understand how devastating this news is -- we are told we'll have a small surgery and then rads and be all done. Now you have to consider if you want reconstruction (which is a bigger hassle than the MX) and, if so, what kind and from what plastic surgeon. This process is an endless set of crappy choices. I opted for bilateral MX because of some suspicious spots on the other side, but those were false positives likely due to having the MRI done at the wrong time in my cycle. You have time to research your options carefully and make your decisions. I ended up travelling out of town for reconstruction because the local plastic surgeons are awful. You can wait and have reconstruction later too. Don't let anyone push you into anything. It takes some time just to get your head around having to have a MX for a condition some call "pre-cancer." You have a little time here. Best wishes -- this is not easy, but life is pretty sweet on the other side of all of this!