decisions decisions

at6sand7s

First post here--in the club no one wants to join. I recently received a DCIS diagnosis. For that reason, I feel as though I should be grateful to have caught it early, and feel lucky that I have as many options as I do---but I don't feel that way. I know there are so many ladies here who are struggling with much more serious diagnoses--so I feel little guilty too. Like so many others, I'm confused and overwhelmed. I have more options right now, than I will probably ever have in this journey, and yet--that only seems to make decision making more daunting to me. I'm afraid of making the wrong choice.

Beesie

Sorry you've joined us here. Although you are 'just diagnosed', a lot of the discussion in this forum may not be relevant to you and might add to your confusion and struggles with decisions, so be careful as you read through here. For example, HER2 testing is very relevant to those with invasive cancer, but not relevant to those with pure DCIS. Similarly, those with invasive cancer often face decisions about chemo, whereas chemo is never given for DCIS. So I would suggest that you take a look at the DCIS forum. I have one post that the Mods have pinned to the top of that forum that can help you understand what DCIS is all about:

Topic: A layperson's guide to DCIS

The thing about DCIS is that it comes in many shapes and sizes. The right approach depends very much on the specifics of your diagnosis. Do you have 5mm of DCIS or 5cm of DCIS? Is your all DCIS located in a single focus (one defined area of the breast) or is it multi-focal or even spread out throughout your breast? Is your DCIS grade 1 or is it grade 3 with comedo-necrosis? Is your DCIS ER+ or ER-? While chemo is never required for DCIS, the decision on whether a lumpectomy is medically appropriate or whether a mastectomy is necessary depends on these sorts of factors. Similarly, if you are eligible for and opt for a lumpectomy, the decision on whether radiation is required is also dependent on these factors. And whether endocrine therapy (Tamoxifen or an Aromatase Inhibitor) will be recommended depends on the ER status and the type of surgery you have.

So, you've been diagnosed with DCIS. What do you know about your diagnosis so far? Have you just had a needle biopsy or have you had surgery? Do you have copies of your imaging and pathology reports?

What decisions are you struggling with?

Moderators

Hi at6sand7s, and we too are sorry you've joined the club nobody wants to join. Everyone has their reality, and it is very common and normal to feel confused and overwhelmed. No need to feel guilty! Beesie gave you some great suggestions and links! You'll find plenty of excellent information and support there! Please know you're not alone