Have most of you had PetScans?

amybirnbaum1

Hi,

I had an MRI that showed an indeterminate mammary chain lymph node. On the report it was not highlighted as an issue nor did my oncologist seem to think it was a finding worth worrying about. My surgeoun however, wants me to get a pet scan. This is going to cost me a lot out of pocket and I am already on neoadjuvant chemo TCHP which is kicking my ass. My onc said if this was anything, it would not change protocol, just be more concerning for recurrence later. I am debating declining this test. Currently, I am stage 1A no other nodes seen. IDC, right breast trip positive 1.5 cm. Thanks guys.

TXLorelei

After an MRI showed “multiple" enlarged nodes, a biopsy proved they were positive. I then had CT and bone scans which showed no other cancer.

Only after my surgical pathology report showed many more positive nodes than the doctors expected did they send me for a PET scan. Luckily it also came back clear.

Beesie

The answer will be different depending on the stage and the diagnosis.

PET scans are quite unusual for those who are Stage I. In fact early stagers often don't get any scans other than those required to determine the extent of cancer in the breast.

Since this node is indeterminate, did the MO suggest a follow-up MRI to monitor stability? Or will MRIs be part of your ongoing follow-up protocol? I think that would be the more usual way to handle an indeterminate (but not concerning) lesion.

amybirnbaum1

thank u ladies. No, the mo was like im not concerned about it go ahead and have the test because i think he does not want to second guess the other doc. No, I have started neoadjuvant chemo which is kicking my butt. the mri i thought would have definitely agreed with this. The actual tumor is 1.5 cm, so I'm having the chemo then lumpectomy. I'm somewhat confused about it. MO actually read report and thought it was ok, was rather surprised surgeon orfered mri. I think they need to get on the same page,??? This is causing a lot of stress and money!

star2017

I didn't get one even when I was stage 3 four years ago. I didn't get one until this year, after I had a confirmed metastasis.