IDC - Biopsy Report Question

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Sd2906
Sd2906 Member Posts: 35

hi, family member recently diagnosed and we are reviewing the pathology report from the biopsy before the MRI. what we can't figure out is the section below...

Final Diagnosis

- Invasive Tumor Measures at least 11mm

- Nottingham score of 8

- Lymphovascular permeation by tumor not seen

Clinical Information Section:

3.1cm mass, recent breast feeding, suspicious FNA

the question we have is many women reference a 2cm or 3cm tumor. Is the size of the tumor here 3.1cm or 1.1cm?

Thanks in advance!

Comments

  • MTwoman
    MTwoman Member Posts: 2,704
    edited September 2017

    Sd, if the tumor in question hasn't been removed yet (via lx or mx) then the size is an estimate based on imaging (which can be quite a bit off). It looks like they are saying the invasive component measures "at least" 11 mm out of the entire mass of 3.1 cm. That means that it could be upwards of 1.1 cm, but may not comprise the whole 3.1cm mass. The final pathology should list the size of the tumor, which is why staging is not complete until after the removal; in addition to sentinel lymph nodes being removed and tested.

  • Sd2906
    Sd2906 Member Posts: 35
    edited September 2017

    Thank you. that's helpful. and it makes a lot of sense. it has not been removed and we received the diagnosis on Friday. The most bizarre part is that the lump is moveable vs. stuck in place.

    Thank you again. We meet the surgeon tomorrow and expect to have the surgery at MSK.

    details beyond what I listed is HER2-negative, no LVI, ER Positive 50%.

    Pretty crushing for us but I do appreciate all the color from this message board. very helpful. I was hoping that the lack of lymphovascular penetration and the fact my wife doesn't feel anything or any pain near her lymph nodes meant it hasn't spread but reading these posts, it seems premature to be optimistic. The only way to know is with tests.

  • MTwoman
    MTwoman Member Posts: 2,704
    edited September 2017

    I'm sorry, but unfortunately yes, testing has the final say. It is difficult to wait as results come in and more test get ordered, for which you then have to wait again. But it is crucial to have as much information as possible to make the best treatment decisions. So sorry that you are both having to go through this steep learning curve. Please do ask for whatever help you need!

  • Sd2906
    Sd2906 Member Posts: 35
    edited September 2017

    MT, I hate that I'm on this site and I hate asking questions. But I can't properly state my respect, appreciation, and admiration for all your responses. Your empathy is truly incredible and admirable. The women on this site are incredible heroes. Thank you for sharing your stories and offering advice despite the difficulties you may be facing or have faced.

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