How many treatments before tumor starts to shrink?

I had 4 DD AC with no visible effect on the tumor.  I thought it seemed smaller to my touch but the BS said the diameter (by U/S) was roughly the same as when we started.  He did think that the mass had become less dense -- sort of disintegrating he called it.  I went on to 4 DD Taxotere then surgery.  The pathology report at that time measured the residual mass at less than 2 mm.  Unfortunately, three nodes that weren't clinically evident (not palpable, didn't light up on the pre-chemo PET/CT), tested positive for micro mets post surgery.  So...the nodes were likely involved before chemo and the chemo didn't clean them up and / or more nodes were involved pre-chemo.  The AC and Taxotere virtually wiped out the primary tumor but didn't completely clean up the axillary nodes.

Hugs Annie.  Thinking about you over here in PA (did I tell you I'm preparing to move to TX?).

t

I had 4 ac before my surgery and after the 2nd one I noticed a difference it had gone from 4.5 cm to 3.8 and then after my third treatment I had an ultrasound and it was half the size about 2.4 and after my fourth it was surgery time and believe it or not it was completely gone when the dr went in to do the lumpectomy she took out 11cm and the pathology report could not find one invasive cancer cell left, not even a tumor just the pocket where it was, ladies God answers prayers even mychemo nurse said she couldnt remember ever seeing this happen, so remember ladies he still heals even today.

Tina