Nigeria
A member asked about a 48-year-old female:
In early stage her-2 breast cancer, which is the best option:- is it taking drugs or a total removal of the breast?
3 doctor answers • 15 doctors weighed in
Dr. Barry Rosenanswered
General Surgery 35 years experience
2 Different Issues: Mastectomy or Lump-x + Radiation RX are LOCAL treatments of breast cancer, with EQUAL survival rates. One or the other is necessary for all breast CA pt's. CHEMOTHERAPY ("drugs") are SYSTEMIC (whole body) RX's for certain breast cancers. Her2Neu (+) cancers are particularly sensitive to Herceptin (trastuzumab). Please meet with your oncologist to understand the different options you have. Good luck.
4k viewsReviewed >2 years ago
Dr. Eric Brownanswered
General Surgery 33 years experience
Chemo then surgery: Her2 (+) breast cancers typically need chemotherapy. Chemotherapy followed by surgery +/- radiation is very good option. Long term outcome no different w mastectomy vs lumpectomy.
4k viewsReviewed >2 years ago
Dr. Rakesh Patelanswered
Radiation Oncology 23 years experience
Local vs Systemic: Early stage breast cancer can often safely be treated with a lumpectomy + Rad Therapy (breast conservation). A mastectomy may be preferred for larger or multiple tumors, cosmetic outcome, or genetic risk.
The Her-2 pos does not directly impact the (local) surgical decision at this time, but certainly determines the systemic therapy, specifically the need for Herceptin, Perjeta (pertuzumab) and chemotherapy
1.1k viewsAnswered >2 years ago
Last updated Sep 23, 2017
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