I was diagnosed with stage I, Grade 3, 1.5 cm breast cancer in Jan 09. Had a lumpectomy, lymph node negative and clear margins. My oncologist is leaving the decision to me whether or not to get chemo. He suggested A/C I went for a second opinion and they oncologist told me that she wouldn't consider A/C because of the risk but did suggest T/C. After reading on both can someone explain to me what the differences are?
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Q: Breast cancer treatments Difference between A/C and T/C which is better
Answers (2)
4/ 7/09 4:39am
Firs,t have you asked for an Oncotype DX test? This assesses how much good chemo will actually do you. It sounds to me like you're right on the border of needing chemo, or not - Oncotype might tell you that chemo really wouldn't offer any added benefit, so why put yourself through it...? Just a thought.
I assume you've read our AC + T FAQS. That tells you the difference between how adriamycin and taxotere (or taxol) work. By avoiding adriamycin, you avoid heart issues. By picking up "T," you add neuropthy (tingling hands and feet, whcih can go on for many, many months) to your side effects. Which is better? More doctors seem to be heading away from adriamycin and towards taxol/taxotere. Not sure if that's because it's more effective, and comes with less potent side effects...
At any rate, ask about Oncotype DX. And good luck with your decision, either way - PJH
4/ 7/09 6:10am
Adriamycin was much harder for me than Taxol during treatment. (The T the second doctor recommended is a Taxane--could be Taxol or Taxotere.) The potential long-term side effects from Adriamycin also tend to be more dangerous. However, the long-term side effects I actually ended up with were from Taxol. Everyone is different in how they react to medications. In advising someone on the borderline of needing chemo, I would be inclined to agree with your second opinion doctor. However, it has to be your decision. Read all the information about risks and benefits. List the factual pros and cons, and then go with your gut on what's right for you. Once you make your decision, don't second guess yourself.
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By quilla1953— Last Modified: 12/09/10, First Published: 04/06/09
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