RECURRENCE

Crap, I'm sorry.

Any idea if it's a recurrence, a return of the same cancer in the same location, or a new primary, a new cancer that has developed either in the same or contralateral breast?

If the cancer is in the same breast, the first question would be if it's in the same area. If it's in pretty much the same location, then it is more likely to be a recurrence whereas if it's in a different part of the breast, I'd think it's more likely to be a new primary.

The hormone status and grade is another indicator. Hormone status can change but you had a grade 1 ER+/PR+/HER2- cancer last time so if it's something different than this time, then it might be a new primary.

Combining the two, same hormone status and same location, then it will certainly be assumed to be a recurrence. Different hormone status, different location, then it's most likely a new primary.

Oh crap Purple. Glad to see you but not for this reason. Fingers crossed for reports - and waiting anxiously with you.

Sorry you are dealing with this again. It is always hard, but the second time around is an extra hard punch in the gut. Since you have underlying health problems, hopefully your providers are taking a team approach for how to best treat this while minimizing impact in other areas. As you think of questions relating to the other health issues, be sure to write them down to be sure they are addressed. Hoping you have a plan in place soon.

Purple - in your pocket for the meeting with the surgeon. Is this the same doc you used before?

Unreal to hear about the number of fractures you've had. I'm "enjoying" good luck with Prolia shots every 6 months (only one broken arm). The chemo caused osteoperosis has improved back to a manageable osteopenia - and my DEXA numbers keep getting better. I'm about to have my 8th shot and both MO & Gyn think I should continue for 2 more years & re-valuate. Of course I require the shots to be in my hip or butt because of LE.

I posted this on MNSusan's thread, but meant it for you. I am a bubblehead sometimes. You hay want to ask your doc about this test to see if they think you would be a candidate for it.: https://oneome.com/

It tests your pharmacogenetics. Basically it looks at different cell receptors nad such and explaisn why some people react poorly to some medications while others have no side effects. It might help the team choose drugs that would be helpful for you with the least side effects. You can read about it and if it seems like something you think would be helpful, you can ask about it. I've only read about it (though I would love to have it done for curiosity sake...but I cannot justify spending $$ to satisfy my curiosity).

purple32 - I'm just now finding your thread. I am so sorry to hear you have been kicked in the gut again! Truly, I know the feeling. It's been 5 years since I last joined this club and here I am again! Mine is a new kind in the opposite breast. ~ Have you had an update? What is your latest plan? We can hold each others hand thru this process.

UGH! is right! The same place!!! UGH! ~ I'll be thinking of you on March 11th. That's the day my company leaves, so I'll be changing beds and doing laundry....lots of idle time......so I'll be sending good thoughts your way. Keep us posted, ok?

you might want to ask about proton rads which is very precise and does not pass beyond its target spot.

I had proton rads for breast. (Left sided TNBC).

There can be an issue getting coverage. The center I went to (Procure in NJ) worked with me to limit the $ I had to pay to my out of pocket max which I knew I would meet regardless. They fought the fight with insurance and I don't even know what they finally got from them. They were wonderful.