Oncotype 21 Chemo or not?

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JPD1711
JPD1711 Member Posts: 10
edited August 2016 in IDC (Invasive Ductal Carcinoma)

Hi.


I was diagnosed in late May, had lumpectomy on 7/13. Stage 2b. Sentinel node and one other node was cancerous, the other 15 were clear. I am ER+, PR+ HER2-. CT and bone scans were all clear. I met with the MO today for the first time and she is recommending chemo (4 does over 12 weeks) followed by radiation, followed by hormone therapy. For the 3% difference in recurrence rates, I am leaning toward not doing chemo. Has anyone been in a similar situation and how did you make your decision? I appreciate your input. Thanks. Joyce

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  • keepthefaith
    keepthefaith Member Posts: 2,156
    edited August 2016

    Joyce, I had a 21 OT also, but no node involvement. My worry was that there were stray cells out there, that could not be detected and I would have mets down the road...either way, you have to do what you think is best for you, without regrets. I am good with my decision knowing that I did all I could....even though it may not have been necessary physically, it was mentally, for me. There are so many aspects to cancer that are unknown. Hard decision. You could always get another opinion or ask for the mamma-print test. Good luck!

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  • muska
    muska Member Posts: 1,195
    edited August 2016

    Hi JPD, maybe you can get a second opinion from another oncologist re chemo? I am not sure about the accuracy of the recurrence rates, how reliable those rates are and I think oncologists are better equipped to assess our risks. If I were in your shoes I would get a second MO opinion, discuss the recurrence rates more if that number is important to you to understand but if both MOs agree in their chemo recommendation - and I think they will - I would do it. Then I would focus on what chemo regimen is better suited for your situation because there are several to choose from.

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  • pupmom
    pupmom Member Posts: 5,068
    edited August 2016

    Your age, which you don't mention, could be a big factor. Doctors tend to recommend chemo for younger women, particularly if they fall in the Oncotype's "grey" area.

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  • JPD1711
    JPD1711 Member Posts: 10
    edited August 2016

    Thank you very much for your responses. I am 64.

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  • ElaineTherese
    ElaineTherese Member Posts: 3,328
    edited August 2016

    Hmmmm..... 64 -- could have 20+ more good years ahead of you. I agree with the others about getting a second opinion from another MO. I'm not surprised that your MO recommended chemo, given that two nodes were involved. But, yes, you should make sure that you fully understand the risks of skipping chemo, and a second MO could help clarify that. Good luck!

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  • JPD1711
    JPD1711 Member Posts: 10
    edited August 2016

    Thanks, again, for your responses. I did get another medical opinion, and that doctor said for the small percentage difference, he would advise against chemo. It is a really difficult decision. After speaking with the other doctor, my family and a few close friends, I have decided not to do chemo. Will I regret this decision down the road? Perhaps. Will I be worried about recurrence? Yes, but I would worry about that regardless. While this decision certainly isn't the best for everyone, I feel good about it. Best wishes to all as we continue to fight against this insidious disease.

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  • cookiegal
    cookiegal Member Posts: 3,296
    edited August 2016

    good call. The benefit is TINY at 21. I had a 22 and a node and did not do it. Seven years later still here.

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  • keepthefaith
    keepthefaith Member Posts: 2,156
    edited August 2016

    jp, glad you were able to make an informed decision that you can feel good about!:) Best wishes moving forward.

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  • Run13one
    Run13one Member Posts: 2
    edited August 2016

    I was 17 and MO recommended chemo. I was back and forth for a while. I decided on chemo because I was node positive, but now regretting my decision after one treatment. I have never been in so much pain. I called because they said call if you have questions concerns, worries. MO said all that is normal, no compassion, just suggested I take IB for pain miralax for constipation, oh yes let's throw more drugs into a body that has been chemical free natural for 30+ years.

    Deb

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