Hi, I had a lumpectomy with a sentinel node biopsy for a stage I breast cancer. Three lymph nodes were taken out, all of them negative. The tumor was 1.1 cm ER+, PR+, HER2-. However, the surgical report showed focal lymphatic invasion. My oncotype score was 13, which puts me in the intermediate zone. I am 58 years old. Do you think I would benefit from chemotherapy (taxotere and cyclophosphamide)?
Thank you
Hi - If your Oncotype score was 13, that puts you in the low range (18 and lower = low range), which means chemo wouldn't benefit you very much. Wth no node involvement, and a low Oncotype score, you may consider skipping the chemo. HOWEVER - understand that this probably puts you at slightly inceased risk for recurrence. Weigh that increased risk against chemo's downside - side effects, both short- and long-term – then add in your own personality. Are you someone who looks back, second guesses herself, worries a lot? Or do you make a decision and move forward without regrets? The answers to all of these questions will tell you whether or not chemo is right for YOU. And be sure to discuss this with your oncologist - only s/he has all the informaiton about your diagnosis that will need to go into this decision. Good luck - PJH
No quite - with a lymph node involved, they usually do like to consider chemo pretty seriously. But with a fairly low Oncotype score - I'd say you're absolutely on the fence - unfortunately! YOur oncologist will present you with all the stats, don't worry; you'll weigh everything and make your decision - then DON'T second-guess yourself. What you decide is what's best for you with the knowledge you have. Good luck - PJH
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Hi - Would your answer be the same for me? I have Stage 2 Grade 2 invasive 1.9 cm. Pathlogic stage is llA. Lymphatic invasion and one sentinal node positive. I am almost 59 years old and my Oncotype test came back as a 15. Thanks for your help.