Chemo decision: TC vs. CMF?
In July, I was diagnosed with a small (0.6 cm) TN tumor and a genetic test revealed a BRCA1 mutation. Three weeks ago, I had a double mastectomy (mostly for prevention) which indicated no lymph node involvement and no cancer in the other breast. I am now preparing for chemotherapy (because of the TN). I went to two oncologists who had very different takes on which chemo to have. One oncologist recommended AC or TC. The other said AC was way too much for my situation (note I am 68 years old so perhaps the heart side effects played a role in his thinking.) He recommended either TC or CMF ("especially for a TN"). I think the current usual approach is TC, and recommendation of CMF was based in part on the relatively small size of the tumor and no spread to the lymph nodes, and the gentler side effects, although I also wonder if it's because the drug combo has some special benefit for my TN situation as well. Anyway, I am wondering if anyone else has faced this decision (TC vs CMF) and whether others with a smallTN have experienced CMF chemo. The doc said he would be fine with either approach and it would be up to me which approach I would prefer. I am having a hard time making the decision (some other considerations are, for TC: greater loss of hair, which seems to be permanent in some cases; also greater neuropathy). Any comments, experiences, reactions? I need to make this decision soon since I should start chemo in the next week or two.
Comments
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I do not have TN, but I did unfortunately have Taxotere and I did not get my hair back and I have crippling neuropathy in my left foot. Super painful. Not to scare you but Taxotere, IMO wicked stuff. But not for everyone, apparently. I wish I would have been told these things before I had it, I would have asked for CMF. Good luck with your decision.
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Hi and thanks for your reply. When did you have your treatment and when did it end? is it possible that these issues will correct themselves over time?
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It's been 5 years. No improvement yet.
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