If radiation is suggested and not chemo, should I push back?

Missourimom54

Hi, I am grateful that so far, my Triple Negative cancer seems to have been caught very early, although my surgery Monday will give me more information. Right now, doctors say I will only need radiation. But knowing the severity of TN, should I insist on chemo?

Flynn

I’m far from an expert but it seems like most of the TN’s I’ve come across havedone chemo. Many of us also have larger or higher grade tumors. I guess my answer would depend on size, grade, stage info.

jkalapis

Welcome to the site. There is so much information on site and many forums to follow. I was Dx with IDC grade 3 TN and was told I only need radiation as well because my tumor was only .3cm. I was told that standard protocol is anything >.5cm would require chemo. I am relieved to be able to avoid the chemo beast, however, I too was concerned because of all the research I have done and the TN stories. I have scheduled a second opinion just to put my mind at ease. I couldn't get an appointment until 2/11 so patiently waiting and trying to not let my mind go crazy. I will be watching to see others responses. Good luck on journey!!

Missourimom54

Please keep us posted!

Numb

As there are no hormone treatments available for TNBC and Chemo is the only thing you can do then I would go for chemo but it is best to go with what your Oncologist says and discuss your fears with him/her. Your Oncologist is better equipped to guide you than the patients here I would say.

leftduetostupidmods

I didn't have TNBC but just throwing my 2p in. You didn't mention the grade your tumor was. On low grade chemo doesn't work as it only kills fast dividing cells, so in case you had a low grade tumor, you're exposing yourself to a plethora of possible lifelong side effects for no benefit.

Missourimom54

Thank you for reminding me to ask my doctor about this. I do have a low grade cancer. Some chemo drugs kill cancer when they are at rest, called cell-cycle non specific.

Missourimom54

Thanks, numb. yes, in addition to reading these comments, I am in constant consultation with my doctor and second opinion doctors. As I said earlier, my doctor kind of put the burden on me to decide

Missourimom54

Jennifer, what did you decide, if I might ask.