Is metastesis possible with no node involvement?

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laura_g
laura_g Member Posts: 38
edited June 2014 in Triple-Negative Breast Cancer

Hi Everyone,

I'm newly diagnosed with triple neg bc. I'm also a 16 yr lymphoma survivor. I had two lumpectomies last week and the two nodes tested came back clear. Big relief! However, I'm feeling symptomatic. I've lost 14 lbs in the past 6 weeks and I'm very fatigued. Can there be mets even if my nodes were clear? Also, is a PET or whole body MRI standard even if nodes are clear? I kind of want one or the other just to know that nothing else is going on. My surgeon and oncologist are currently on vacation. I have lots of questions and no one to ask. Thanks in advance for any input you might be able to provide.

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  • bak94
    bak94 Member Posts: 1,846
    edited August 2012

    Hi Laura,

    It is possible for breast cancer to spread even if the nodes are clear. I would request a scan because you are not feeling good, I am not sure if it is a standard to scan if nodes are clear, but since you have lost weight and are feeling fatigued it seems like it would not be a problem for insurance to cover it.  Is there an on call oncologist you can speak with or a nurse? How long are they going to be on vacation? I don't think you should have to wait, there should be somebody that is taking care of his/her patients! Keep us posted. Sorry you have joined the club that nobody wants to be a member of! You will find lots of support here.

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  • laura_g
    laura_g Member Posts: 38
    edited August 2012

    Thanks for taking the time to reply, bak94. Your comment about the club that no one wants to be a member of made me laugh. So true!



    I'm not happy to learn that metastasis can happen without node involvement. I guess a little more looking may be required before treatment can begin. My oncologist will be back on Monday. Her schedule is completely booked, but I know her staff will squeeze me in as soon as possible. She knows I've been losing weight, just not that I've lost another 5 lbs since she first saw me two weeks ago.

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  • bak94
    bak94 Member Posts: 1,846
    edited August 2012

    I lost weight after my diagnoses because of stress. You will feel so much better after your scans and you receive the all clear, which you probably will! Clear nodes are a good thing, so focus on that.

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  • laura_g
    laura_g Member Posts: 38
    edited August 2012

    I've definitely had some stress. I'm going to take your advice and focus on the fact that no nodes were involved and that's a good thing. Thanks again!

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