Oncotype score <25, 1 lymph node involved, avoid chemo?

I received 2 completely divergent treatment plans from 2 academic centers, Dana Farber and Massachusetts General. One plan included extensive radiation and chemotherapy. The other included neither radiation nor chemotherapy but a trial of Palbociclib (now on the market as Ibrance). MO's at both centers were pushing trials. My Oncotype score was a 9. The MO who recommended chemotherapy literally said that she would do her standard treatment for hormone positive cancer. I did not find that reassuring; since I have Lobular not Ductal... I chose to go with the MO at Dana Farber, who spoke about the genetics of my tumor, and tailoring my treatment to my situation. Chemo is most effective on fast growing cells, which mine were not. It is important to consider both the risks and benefits of any treatment. There is no simple answer. (Hence, 2 very different proposals...) Trust and respect for the oncologist is key. Whatever the decision, feel good about the research and thought that you have put into it.

Celkea, I was in the SWOG s1007 trial, until I got my Onco score of 9 and it wanted me to do chemo. I said no thanks after my 9.

Mary

My oncotype should be back early next week. I Feel ready whatever it may be. I'm nervous, but hopeful.

Mab60, glad to hear I wasn't the only one that decided to take it in my own hands. Happy you had a low 10!! I started armadix 3/17/15, have a few joint and leg pain but feeling blessed that I could pass on chemo and radiation.

Carolyn, I also felt the way you do. My oncotype was 18, but because of some other factors, my MO recommended chemo (and I did go for a second opinion). I did the chemo and I am glad I did. It's behind me now (finished chemo in February) and am feeling much stronger and back to my old self. i would have always wondered if I should have done it....this way, I know I did everything i could to keep it away. PM if you would like more info. I am happy to share.

Carolyn - Oh my gosh, I remember the month of April being the worst month of my life. I had a small (1.5 cm) tumor and negative nodes. I was sure I didn't need chemo. Then came the oncotype of 20. So I had the mammaprint test, which came back high risk. One MO felt chemo was optional, and the second strongly suggested I do it. Even if my genomics were different, my MO said that any tumor over 1cm warrants chemo, per current protocol. I felt it would be irresponsible and selfish to refuse chemo as much as I didn't want to. My MO offered me CMF, due to my circumstances, which is a bit less harsh than TC. The minute I made the decision to proceed with chemo I felt it was the right decision. I can not look back with second thoughts. I found this treatment very tolerable. Due to your tumor size, I feel it is well worth it to do the chemo. You'll be done in a few months and will feel relieved you made this decision.

I hope this helps. I do feel for you, knowing how hard this time of your life is. I am now about to undergo radiation--the process is long, but hopefully so will be my life.

Hugs,

Sue

Carolyn62

How are you doing? Would love to hear from you. I choose no chemo with two positive nodes. I had a mastectomy, and I am now taking letrozle.