Level 3 Infiltrating Ductal Carcinoma
my girlfriend (who turned 25 last month) found a lump in her left breast last month sometime, she had it mammo'ed and biopsied and got the call this morning. they told her it was "Level 3 Infiltrating Ductal Carcinoma"
I don't know what this means, and it's straight out of left field.
she has an appointment on June 11th for a consiltation.
I guess what I am wanting to know is what does "Level 3" mean, and what questions and answers do I need to know about the dr that will perform her surgery and the qualifications etc. I guess I am just searching for as much easy to understand information as possible. and what we should hope for and work towards.
any information is helpful thank you all and God Bless
Comments
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HI Spinnr1, Sorry about your
HI Spinnr1, Sorry about your friend. Looks like she has a good friend in you. I also have infiltrating Ductal Carcinoma. I can tell you, that you need to wait for more information. Some of this will come when she goes to the doctor. Make a list of questions or you will forget. I think there is some information right here on Questions to ask your doctor. Cancer always comes out of left field. The level is not the stage. She won't get her stage until after surgery. I am sure you will get a lot more information here than I can provide. Again so sorry for you and your friend, take care0 -
wow...I can't believe thatKat11 said:HI Spinnr1, Sorry about your
HI Spinnr1, Sorry about your friend. Looks like she has a good friend in you. I also have infiltrating Ductal Carcinoma. I can tell you, that you need to wait for more information. Some of this will come when she goes to the doctor. Make a list of questions or you will forget. I think there is some information right here on Questions to ask your doctor. Cancer always comes out of left field. The level is not the stage. She won't get her stage until after surgery. I am sure you will get a lot more information here than I can provide. Again so sorry for you and your friend, take care
wow...I can't believe that they would tell her that on the phone with no explanation of what it means....and make her wait so long for a consult...
my surgeon sat me in front of a big white board and drew everything out for me
and then gave me a photo of the board to refer to. The thing is that there are so many variables that just going online and looking up what they told her wont really tell her much. That is a long time to make her wait for an explanation....I believe I'd be looking for a new Doc. Is she going to a breast cancer clinic ? They usually understand how important it is to not make us wait for answers.0 -
WAITING FOR ANSWERS
hi spinnr1
first off so sorry about your girlfriend she is too young at 25 to be going thru this, thankfully she has you.
you did not say which of her drs. sent her for the mammo and biopsy. who called her on the phone with the results? usually the dr. who orders the mammo and biopsy is the one who will give you these results. some people prefer to get bad/good news over the phone and some dr.s absolutely make you come to their office no matter what. in my case my gyno who ordered my tests called and said i needed to come to his office to get the results, i knew then that it was bad. my surgeon makes an appt. for 1 week after any procedure/surgery and will not tell you results before then and will not give any information over the phone.
you did not say who she has the consultation with, is it a breast surgeon? she should be seeing a breast oncology surgeon, this is someone who just operates on breast cancers all day long. so they have the most experience and knowledge. again her regular dr. should be able to help find a surgeon or your local hospital. ask around where other women had this type of surgery. even your health insurance carrier can sometime help finding a dr. go to someone that does alot of these surgeries.
as far as waiting 10 days for a consult it is not going to hurt as far as the cancer goes, because you usually have to wait even longer for surgery, but its hard on your emotional state to have to wait so long for answers. if you're waiting to see the top surgeon in your area it may be worth it if not try to find the best who can take you sooner. in the meantime her regular dr. should meet with her to allay some of her fears and possibly answer some questions. if after you meet with the surgeon you can always get a second opinion or change if you don't like them.
in the meantime go on the american cancer site to find out what questions you should ask at your first visit. try to get a copy of the pathology report from her biopsy, this will help you formulate questions. but don't get scared trying to figure it out on your own, wait for the dr. the imaging ctr. or wherever she had the biopsy can give you this. also when you meet with a surgeon you should have copies of her films (mammograms, ultrasounds any other imaging) they will want to see them. also make sure the surgeon has a copy of the pathology report from the biopsy before your visit so they'll have time to look at it. this seems like alot but these are the things that you can do to keep busy while you're waiting for her appt.
i had invasive ductal carcinoma and i don't know what level 3 means. as someone else said they usually stage the cancer after surgery. the surgeon will usually tell your girlfriend of any other tests, bloodwork, imaging they want done before the surgery.
i know this seems like a punch in the gut, and alot to take in. but the best thing to do is to make a list and take it one step at a time. the first thing is to find your girl a good surgeon. don't worry about something until there's something to worry about. this is the hardest part finding out this info and trying to come up with a plan and finding a dr. and scheduling the surgery. but hopefully before you know it this will be behind you and she will have the best possible outcome.
good luck and God bless you both.
ps. try to take your girl's mind off it whenever you can. do something fun.0 -
Perhaps they said gradecorey50 said:WAITING FOR ANSWERS
hi spinnr1
first off so sorry about your girlfriend she is too young at 25 to be going thru this, thankfully she has you.
you did not say which of her drs. sent her for the mammo and biopsy. who called her on the phone with the results? usually the dr. who orders the mammo and biopsy is the one who will give you these results. some people prefer to get bad/good news over the phone and some dr.s absolutely make you come to their office no matter what. in my case my gyno who ordered my tests called and said i needed to come to his office to get the results, i knew then that it was bad. my surgeon makes an appt. for 1 week after any procedure/surgery and will not tell you results before then and will not give any information over the phone.
you did not say who she has the consultation with, is it a breast surgeon? she should be seeing a breast oncology surgeon, this is someone who just operates on breast cancers all day long. so they have the most experience and knowledge. again her regular dr. should be able to help find a surgeon or your local hospital. ask around where other women had this type of surgery. even your health insurance carrier can sometime help finding a dr. go to someone that does alot of these surgeries.
as far as waiting 10 days for a consult it is not going to hurt as far as the cancer goes, because you usually have to wait even longer for surgery, but its hard on your emotional state to have to wait so long for answers. if you're waiting to see the top surgeon in your area it may be worth it if not try to find the best who can take you sooner. in the meantime her regular dr. should meet with her to allay some of her fears and possibly answer some questions. if after you meet with the surgeon you can always get a second opinion or change if you don't like them.
in the meantime go on the american cancer site to find out what questions you should ask at your first visit. try to get a copy of the pathology report from her biopsy, this will help you formulate questions. but don't get scared trying to figure it out on your own, wait for the dr. the imaging ctr. or wherever she had the biopsy can give you this. also when you meet with a surgeon you should have copies of her films (mammograms, ultrasounds any other imaging) they will want to see them. also make sure the surgeon has a copy of the pathology report from the biopsy before your visit so they'll have time to look at it. this seems like alot but these are the things that you can do to keep busy while you're waiting for her appt.
i had invasive ductal carcinoma and i don't know what level 3 means. as someone else said they usually stage the cancer after surgery. the surgeon will usually tell your girlfriend of any other tests, bloodwork, imaging they want done before the surgery.
i know this seems like a punch in the gut, and alot to take in. but the best thing to do is to make a list and take it one step at a time. the first thing is to find your girl a good surgeon. don't worry about something until there's something to worry about. this is the hardest part finding out this info and trying to come up with a plan and finding a dr. and scheduling the surgery. but hopefully before you know it this will be behind you and she will have the best possible outcome.
good luck and God bless you both.
ps. try to take your girl's mind off it whenever you can. do something fun.
Perhaps they said grade three instead of level three. I know that it is easy to hear something and substitute another word in our mind that is similar. But perhaps there is a level three. I know that they can tell grade in general from the biospy. And why do the people that inform us of these diagnosis think that we know the medical terms for a cancer. Just start off with it is cancer or it is not a cancer (that would be the best one) and then add the details. Even telling someone it is benign can be cause for concern. I had a friend that was called and told her biopsy was benign and she thought that was bad. Not everyone is cancer savvy and not everyone has internet access to fill in the blanks. Just my two cents.
Stef0 -
Level 3 would probably referfauxma said:Perhaps they said grade
Perhaps they said grade three instead of level three. I know that it is easy to hear something and substitute another word in our mind that is similar. But perhaps there is a level three. I know that they can tell grade in general from the biospy. And why do the people that inform us of these diagnosis think that we know the medical terms for a cancer. Just start off with it is cancer or it is not a cancer (that would be the best one) and then add the details. Even telling someone it is benign can be cause for concern. I had a friend that was called and told her biopsy was benign and she thought that was bad. Not everyone is cancer savvy and not everyone has internet access to fill in the blanks. Just my two cents.
Stef
Level 3 would probably refer to the estimated size of the tumor after the biopsy...with levels going from I-IV....But the thing is, until they actually go in and look at it, they cant be sure....if the mammogram squished the breast out a lot, it may look bigger on the film than if really is....But the size of the lump isn't as important as knowing whether it has spread into the surrounding tissue or into the lymphnodes, and you can't know that until surgery.Go into the info site and read about the different levels/stages/ hormone receptors/
because it all is relevant to the dx. and it will help her understand what the Surgeon is talking about when she sees him.0 -
Let me start by wishing you well with your situation. I will be praying for you.Kat11 said:HI Spinnr1, Sorry about your
HI Spinnr1, Sorry about your friend. Looks like she has a good friend in you. I also have infiltrating Ductal Carcinoma. I can tell you, that you need to wait for more information. Some of this will come when she goes to the doctor. Make a list of questions or you will forget. I think there is some information right here on Questions to ask your doctor. Cancer always comes out of left field. The level is not the stage. She won't get her stage until after surgery. I am sure you will get a lot more information here than I can provide. Again so sorry for you and your friend, take care
I have started a notebook for her with some questions. if you know any specific questions that could help please feel free to post them here
again thank you for your response.0 -
she got a phone call from her primary care physician (I believe it was her normal nurse) I was in the other room and all I heard was, "I think I'm going to pass out" and she told me their exact words weredyaneb123 said:wow...I can't believe that
wow...I can't believe that they would tell her that on the phone with no explanation of what it means....and make her wait so long for a consult...
my surgeon sat me in front of a big white board and drew everything out for me
and then gave me a photo of the board to refer to. The thing is that there are so many variables that just going online and looking up what they told her wont really tell her much. That is a long time to make her wait for an explanation....I believe I'd be looking for a new Doc. Is she going to a breast cancer clinic ? They usually understand how important it is to not make us wait for answers.
"Level 3 Invasive Ductal Carcinoma."
As for where she got her mammogram she got it at her primary physician as well as her ultrasound
I believe she also had a mammogram and another ultrasound at Vera West Women's Clinic in Abilene Texas.
then she got the call from her primary Physician's nurse like I said, so I am not sure what any of this means. but Thank you for your feedback
We spoke to her aunt who had a different type of breast cancer and she said she went to Dallas to a dr she knew. Honestly I don't know if she could stand the frequent trips to Dallas or even houston where a friend of hers recommended the M.D. Anderson Clinic
her aunt did say she would go with her to her appointment to ask questions and give her her opinion of the dr.0 -
First of all good luck and God Bless you with your journey I will say some prayers for you as well.corey50 said:WAITING FOR ANSWERS
hi spinnr1
first off so sorry about your girlfriend she is too young at 25 to be going thru this, thankfully she has you.
you did not say which of her drs. sent her for the mammo and biopsy. who called her on the phone with the results? usually the dr. who orders the mammo and biopsy is the one who will give you these results. some people prefer to get bad/good news over the phone and some dr.s absolutely make you come to their office no matter what. in my case my gyno who ordered my tests called and said i needed to come to his office to get the results, i knew then that it was bad. my surgeon makes an appt. for 1 week after any procedure/surgery and will not tell you results before then and will not give any information over the phone.
you did not say who she has the consultation with, is it a breast surgeon? she should be seeing a breast oncology surgeon, this is someone who just operates on breast cancers all day long. so they have the most experience and knowledge. again her regular dr. should be able to help find a surgeon or your local hospital. ask around where other women had this type of surgery. even your health insurance carrier can sometime help finding a dr. go to someone that does alot of these surgeries.
as far as waiting 10 days for a consult it is not going to hurt as far as the cancer goes, because you usually have to wait even longer for surgery, but its hard on your emotional state to have to wait so long for answers. if you're waiting to see the top surgeon in your area it may be worth it if not try to find the best who can take you sooner. in the meantime her regular dr. should meet with her to allay some of her fears and possibly answer some questions. if after you meet with the surgeon you can always get a second opinion or change if you don't like them.
in the meantime go on the american cancer site to find out what questions you should ask at your first visit. try to get a copy of the pathology report from her biopsy, this will help you formulate questions. but don't get scared trying to figure it out on your own, wait for the dr. the imaging ctr. or wherever she had the biopsy can give you this. also when you meet with a surgeon you should have copies of her films (mammograms, ultrasounds any other imaging) they will want to see them. also make sure the surgeon has a copy of the pathology report from the biopsy before your visit so they'll have time to look at it. this seems like alot but these are the things that you can do to keep busy while you're waiting for her appt.
i had invasive ductal carcinoma and i don't know what level 3 means. as someone else said they usually stage the cancer after surgery. the surgeon will usually tell your girlfriend of any other tests, bloodwork, imaging they want done before the surgery.
i know this seems like a punch in the gut, and alot to take in. but the best thing to do is to make a list and take it one step at a time. the first thing is to find your girl a good surgeon. don't worry about something until there's something to worry about. this is the hardest part finding out this info and trying to come up with a plan and finding a dr. and scheduling the surgery. but hopefully before you know it this will be behind you and she will have the best possible outcome.
good luck and God bless you both.
ps. try to take your girl's mind off it whenever you can. do something fun.
Her Consultation on the 11th is supposed to be with a breast surgeon. I will double check when I see her later.
I will be sure she makes an appointment with her dr to discuss the situation. thank you for this advice.
My thing is how do I know how good the surgeon is? I know she works at the women's center in our area, but we live in a small town and the surgeon is in a small city (Abilene Tx - if anyone is curious and wants to help since I can't think straight her Dr's name is Catherine Norton so if you feel like researching her that could help me) I just don't know if bigger is better or whatever
I will be sure to browse the american cancer site to know what questions to ask, and I will be sure she gets her pathology report
when they made the appointment for the consultation they told her to get the film from her mammo and biopsy, so we will do that as well
Thank you0 -
I am pretty sure they said level because she was saying it when they were on the phone with her.fauxma said:Perhaps they said grade
Perhaps they said grade three instead of level three. I know that it is easy to hear something and substitute another word in our mind that is similar. But perhaps there is a level three. I know that they can tell grade in general from the biospy. And why do the people that inform us of these diagnosis think that we know the medical terms for a cancer. Just start off with it is cancer or it is not a cancer (that would be the best one) and then add the details. Even telling someone it is benign can be cause for concern. I had a friend that was called and told her biopsy was benign and she thought that was bad. Not everyone is cancer savvy and not everyone has internet access to fill in the blanks. Just my two cents.
Stef0 -
Spinr.....
Welcome to this wonderful discussion board......a wealth of information is available from us, who have experienced this.....BUT.......remember, EVERY case is different!
I think the "level" you are referring to was meant to be "grade".....this CAN be determined and identified in the pathology report from the biopsy....Grade III means it is invasive/infiltrating ductual carcinoma.....don't be alarmed.....this is the most common type of breast cancer and it DOESN"T mean that it has spread "everywhere".It's just a classification....it just means that the cancer cells have grown through the duct or lobular walls into surrounding tissue....again, I know this sounds scary.........
I am going through this RIGHT NOW and my biopsy showed I also had a HIGH GRADE tumor.......my lumpectomy was two weeks ago, tomorrow.....It took me two weeks to get an appointment with the best breast surgeon in my area, after the results of my core needle biopsy.......then it was ANOTHER two weeks before my surgery......waiting is HELL but it doesn't conpromise your health...just remember, if the doctors thought this was something, according to the pathology, that couldn't wait, your girlfriend would be in the surgeon's care NOW! Silly as it sounds, breast cancer is not considered a "medical emergency".......It's an emergency to one's MENTAL health, but not medically. The surgeon will answer ALL your questions and address your fears........BUT in the meantime, ask her primary physician for a prescription of Valium or Xanax........it will help "take the edge off"......I called and basically DEMANDED something and got it........it helped alot! I kow this is a hellish nighmare right now, your feelings of helpless are very understandable....my husband and grown kids were basket cases...I did better than they did! Once your girlfriend has met with her surgeon, If I can be of any help then, please feel free to contact me.....I feel great, the lumpectomy wasn't bad at all......GOD BLESS YOU BOTH......0 -
im new here!
Hi everyone im new here my grandma was diagnose with a ductal infiltarting carcinfiltrating ductal carcinoma level or grade 2 they did a radical mastectomy and i hope she will be cure and healthy now! i just need some information cause im from Ecuador, South America and i want her to participate in this events. Please i hope you can help me and be strong, believe in God and pray! God bless you all0 -
Thank YouMAJW said:Spinr.....
Welcome to this wonderful discussion board......a wealth of information is available from us, who have experienced this.....BUT.......remember, EVERY case is different!
I think the "level" you are referring to was meant to be "grade".....this CAN be determined and identified in the pathology report from the biopsy....Grade III means it is invasive/infiltrating ductual carcinoma.....don't be alarmed.....this is the most common type of breast cancer and it DOESN"T mean that it has spread "everywhere".It's just a classification....it just means that the cancer cells have grown through the duct or lobular walls into surrounding tissue....again, I know this sounds scary.........
I am going through this RIGHT NOW and my biopsy showed I also had a HIGH GRADE tumor.......my lumpectomy was two weeks ago, tomorrow.....It took me two weeks to get an appointment with the best breast surgeon in my area, after the results of my core needle biopsy.......then it was ANOTHER two weeks before my surgery......waiting is HELL but it doesn't conpromise your health...just remember, if the doctors thought this was something, according to the pathology, that couldn't wait, your girlfriend would be in the surgeon's care NOW! Silly as it sounds, breast cancer is not considered a "medical emergency".......It's an emergency to one's MENTAL health, but not medically. The surgeon will answer ALL your questions and address your fears........BUT in the meantime, ask her primary physician for a prescription of Valium or Xanax........it will help "take the edge off"......I called and basically DEMANDED something and got it........it helped alot! I kow this is a hellish nighmare right now, your feelings of helpless are very understandable....my husband and grown kids were basket cases...I did better than they did! Once your girlfriend has met with her surgeon, If I can be of any help then, please feel free to contact me.....I feel great, the lumpectomy wasn't bad at all......GOD BLESS YOU BOTH......
Thank you so much for your response.
Believe me I will be saying a prayer for you and your family.
Your reply helped alot. but I am concerned because we live "in the middle of nowhere"
and the "BEST" dr may not even be near our area.
thank you again and any more information ESPECIALLY questions to ask her dr's is appreciated
God Bless you as well and good luck in your recovery0 -
SpinnR
No matter what they say, grade, level, I, II, III, IV, it is all scary as soon as the word cancer is there. Let us know when you find out more information, and we will all be praying, sending good vibes, wishes, etc her way. It is so good that she has you by her side while she will be going through this bc journey.
Cat0 -
Spinnr1
Hi, spinnr. So sorry about your girlfriend. I think Fauxma is right, the doctor probably meant grade 3. But don't worry about that right now. Concentrate on the next step, which is the consultation. Your girlfriend's doctor will probably order an MRI and then refer her to a breast surgeon and/or an oncologist. These will be busy and stressful times, and you sound like a good boyfriend. Attending doctor's appointments with your girlfriend is so important. Sometimes people have selective hearing when they are in a very stressful situation. You can listen to the doctor and write down answers to questions. Other than that, know that your girlfriend will go through many different and sometimes conflicting emotions. Let her vent and just be there. You can't fix this, but you can be an emormous help. I'm sure you already are.
Your girlfriend would benefit from going to www.youngsurvival.org, a website for breast cancer survivors under age 40. I belong and it's a great source of information and support. Good luck.
Mimi0 -
Support systemmimivac said:Spinnr1
Hi, spinnr. So sorry about your girlfriend. I think Fauxma is right, the doctor probably meant grade 3. But don't worry about that right now. Concentrate on the next step, which is the consultation. Your girlfriend's doctor will probably order an MRI and then refer her to a breast surgeon and/or an oncologist. These will be busy and stressful times, and you sound like a good boyfriend. Attending doctor's appointments with your girlfriend is so important. Sometimes people have selective hearing when they are in a very stressful situation. You can listen to the doctor and write down answers to questions. Other than that, know that your girlfriend will go through many different and sometimes conflicting emotions. Let her vent and just be there. You can't fix this, but you can be an emormous help. I'm sure you already are.
Your girlfriend would benefit from going to www.youngsurvival.org, a website for breast cancer survivors under age 40. I belong and it's a great source of information and support. Good luck.
Mimi
My family and hers have made a pact to go with her to appointments and wait with her for results and stuff. her mother came into town today to hear the news and she plans on going when she has surgery.
She has an appointment tomorrow with her primary dr and I need questions that will be important. looking for them isn't working because my mind can't focus on anything0 -
Here is list to start with
But these are really for the Surgeon when she has her consult...her primary doc. might not have the answers
Overview: Breast Cancer
What Are Some Questions I Can Ask My Doctor?
As you cope with cancer and cancer treatment, we encourage you to have honest, open talks with your doctor. Feel free to ask any question that's on your mind, no matter how small it might seem. Here are some questions you might want to ask. Be sure to add your own questions as you think of them. Nurses, social workers, and other members of the treatment team may also be able to answer many of your questions.
Would you please write down the exact type of cancer I have?
How does this affect my treatment options and outlook?
May I have a copy of my pathology report?
Has my cancer spread to lymph nodes or other organs?
What is the stage of my cancer? What does that mean in my case?
Are there other tests that need to be done before we can decide on treatment?
What treatment choices do I have? What do you recommend? Why?
Should I have any genetic testing?
Should I think about taking part in a clinical trial?
What are the risks or side effects of different treatments?
What should I do to get ready for treatment?
How effective will breast reconstruction surgery be if I need or want it?
What are the pros and cons of having it done right away or waiting until later?
What will my breasts look and feel like after my treatment?
Will I have normal sensation in my breasts after my treatment?
Will I lose my hair? If so, what can I do about it?
What are the chances of my cancer coming back with the treatment you suggest? What would we do if that happens?
Should I follow a special diet or make other lifestyle changes?
Will I go through menopause as a result of my treatment?
Will I be able to have children after my treatment?
What are my chances of survival, based on my cancer as you see it?
What type of follow-up will I need after treatment?
Be sure to write down any questions that occur to you that are not on this list. For instance, you might want to ask about recovery times so that you can plan your work schedule. Or you may want to ask about second opinions. Taking another person and/or a tape recorder with you to doctor visits can be helpful. Keeping copies of your medical records, pathology reports, and radiology reports may be useful in case you wish to get a second opinion later.
Last Medical Review: 09/16/2008
I hope this helps
Dee0 -
Very Helpfuldyaneb123 said:Here is list to start with
But these are really for the Surgeon when she has her consult...her primary doc. might not have the answers
Overview: Breast Cancer
What Are Some Questions I Can Ask My Doctor?
As you cope with cancer and cancer treatment, we encourage you to have honest, open talks with your doctor. Feel free to ask any question that's on your mind, no matter how small it might seem. Here are some questions you might want to ask. Be sure to add your own questions as you think of them. Nurses, social workers, and other members of the treatment team may also be able to answer many of your questions.
Would you please write down the exact type of cancer I have?
How does this affect my treatment options and outlook?
May I have a copy of my pathology report?
Has my cancer spread to lymph nodes or other organs?
What is the stage of my cancer? What does that mean in my case?
Are there other tests that need to be done before we can decide on treatment?
What treatment choices do I have? What do you recommend? Why?
Should I have any genetic testing?
Should I think about taking part in a clinical trial?
What are the risks or side effects of different treatments?
What should I do to get ready for treatment?
How effective will breast reconstruction surgery be if I need or want it?
What are the pros and cons of having it done right away or waiting until later?
What will my breasts look and feel like after my treatment?
Will I have normal sensation in my breasts after my treatment?
Will I lose my hair? If so, what can I do about it?
What are the chances of my cancer coming back with the treatment you suggest? What would we do if that happens?
Should I follow a special diet or make other lifestyle changes?
Will I go through menopause as a result of my treatment?
Will I be able to have children after my treatment?
What are my chances of survival, based on my cancer as you see it?
What type of follow-up will I need after treatment?
Be sure to write down any questions that occur to you that are not on this list. For instance, you might want to ask about recovery times so that you can plan your work schedule. Or you may want to ask about second opinions. Taking another person and/or a tape recorder with you to doctor visits can be helpful. Keeping copies of your medical records, pathology reports, and radiology reports may be useful in case you wish to get a second opinion later.
Last Medical Review: 09/16/2008
I hope this helps
Dee
Thank you for this list that is very helpful
her primary dr didn't know much this morning, but he did highly recommend the surgeon she is going to next week. He went so far as to say, "If I had a daughter I'd recommend she go to this dr."
We got the Pathology Report but it's chinese if anyone can translate it it would help alot.
Diagnosis:
Breast, Left, Needle Biopsy:
- Infiltrating Ductal Carcinoma, Grade III
- Greatest Tumor Fragment SizeL 9 mm.
- Intratumoral Microcalcifications Are Present
Comment:
This case is being sent to GenPath for ER/PR, and HER2. A Separate Report will be forthcoming.
Specimen Source:
Left Breast Biopsy
Clinical HistoryL
Mass With Calcifications
Gross:
the Specimen is labeled left breast biopsy and consists of three tan white yellow fibroadipose fragments measuring 8 X 1.1 X .1 up to 1.5 X .1 x .1 cm all is placed in A
DPS/dt/gu0 -
SpinnrSpinnr1 said:Very Helpful
Thank you for this list that is very helpful
her primary dr didn't know much this morning, but he did highly recommend the surgeon she is going to next week. He went so far as to say, "If I had a daughter I'd recommend she go to this dr."
We got the Pathology Report but it's chinese if anyone can translate it it would help alot.
Diagnosis:
Breast, Left, Needle Biopsy:
- Infiltrating Ductal Carcinoma, Grade III
- Greatest Tumor Fragment SizeL 9 mm.
- Intratumoral Microcalcifications Are Present
Comment:
This case is being sent to GenPath for ER/PR, and HER2. A Separate Report will be forthcoming.
Specimen Source:
Left Breast Biopsy
Clinical HistoryL
Mass With Calcifications
Gross:
the Specimen is labeled left breast biopsy and consists of three tan white yellow fibroadipose fragments measuring 8 X 1.1 X .1 up to 1.5 X .1 x .1 cm all is placed in A
DPS/dt/gu
i want to recommend a book to you and your girl. it's called "LIVING THROUGH BREAST CANCER" it was written by CAROLYN KAELIN. this woman is a surgical oncologist specializing in breast cancer at dana-farber cancer institute in boston. but she also had breast cancer herself and wrote this book in layman's terms so the average person can understand it.she talks about what she went thru herself too. it was published in 2005, when dealing with information on cancer its always best to get the most recent, so you may want to see if its been republished, but 4 years is not that long ago. this book was like my bible when i was going thru my surgery and treatment and stil to this day 4 yrs. later i still consult it now and again. this book wil help you to understand the reports and medical jargon. if not this book there are others out there.
the most important thing is not to get scared or worry about things that may never come to pass. like a surgery that she may not need. or chemo that she may not have to have. just take it one step at a time. this stuff is scary and you can drive yourself crazy sometimes reading all the bad things that can happen. so don't go there if you don't want to. don't let your girl read too much (especially on the internet). knowledge is one thing so you can ask informed questions but you don't have to treat this yourself, thats why these people go to medical school.
when you find a dr. that you trust you'll know.
you are doing the right thing using a notebook. every time you have a dr. visit write your questions and concerns on that page so you won't forget when you go and write the answers down to.
i know in an earlier post you mentioned that your girl might not want to go back and forth to md anderson cancer ctr. but sometimes you can go to these big hospitals for just a consult or second opinion and your local oncologist (if she needs treatment) can coordinate her care locally.
or you could even just contact them, they all have websites, to see if they recommend your surgeon or anybody else closer to your area.
the most important thing is to have a dr. that does alot of breast cancer surgeries, don't be ashamed to ask the dr. that question when you go, "how many of these surgeries do you do in a week, month?"
what hospital would she have the surgery at? check with them on who they would recommend and are alot of these types of surgeries performed there. if you live in a really small town could she travel to a bigger one just for the surgery. for a lumpectomy you usually go home the same day.
i know its hard right now but tell your girl that we've all been there we've all gotten thru it and so will she. just know that God is with you every step of the way.
i know its hard but, after you've done a little homework and prepared for the dr. visit next week, why not take the weekend off from cancer. at least try not think about what may be and just relax. i know easier said than done. but again we've all had to do it or you'll go crazy. when your girl wants to talk be there to listen if she wants to go to a movie to take her mind off it, go ahead.
all the best and God Bless0 -
Thank youcorey50 said:Spinnr
i want to recommend a book to you and your girl. it's called "LIVING THROUGH BREAST CANCER" it was written by CAROLYN KAELIN. this woman is a surgical oncologist specializing in breast cancer at dana-farber cancer institute in boston. but she also had breast cancer herself and wrote this book in layman's terms so the average person can understand it.she talks about what she went thru herself too. it was published in 2005, when dealing with information on cancer its always best to get the most recent, so you may want to see if its been republished, but 4 years is not that long ago. this book was like my bible when i was going thru my surgery and treatment and stil to this day 4 yrs. later i still consult it now and again. this book wil help you to understand the reports and medical jargon. if not this book there are others out there.
the most important thing is not to get scared or worry about things that may never come to pass. like a surgery that she may not need. or chemo that she may not have to have. just take it one step at a time. this stuff is scary and you can drive yourself crazy sometimes reading all the bad things that can happen. so don't go there if you don't want to. don't let your girl read too much (especially on the internet). knowledge is one thing so you can ask informed questions but you don't have to treat this yourself, thats why these people go to medical school.
when you find a dr. that you trust you'll know.
you are doing the right thing using a notebook. every time you have a dr. visit write your questions and concerns on that page so you won't forget when you go and write the answers down to.
i know in an earlier post you mentioned that your girl might not want to go back and forth to md anderson cancer ctr. but sometimes you can go to these big hospitals for just a consult or second opinion and your local oncologist (if she needs treatment) can coordinate her care locally.
or you could even just contact them, they all have websites, to see if they recommend your surgeon or anybody else closer to your area.
the most important thing is to have a dr. that does alot of breast cancer surgeries, don't be ashamed to ask the dr. that question when you go, "how many of these surgeries do you do in a week, month?"
what hospital would she have the surgery at? check with them on who they would recommend and are alot of these types of surgeries performed there. if you live in a really small town could she travel to a bigger one just for the surgery. for a lumpectomy you usually go home the same day.
i know its hard right now but tell your girl that we've all been there we've all gotten thru it and so will she. just know that God is with you every step of the way.
i know its hard but, after you've done a little homework and prepared for the dr. visit next week, why not take the weekend off from cancer. at least try not think about what may be and just relax. i know easier said than done. but again we've all had to do it or you'll go crazy. when your girl wants to talk be there to listen if she wants to go to a movie to take her mind off it, go ahead.
all the best and God Bless
I just ordered that book , as well as another one I was recommended called Breast Cancer Husband.
She is a trooper she's more scared of the pain of the surgery than dealing with it. I have had many long conversations about it with her about what we want to ask the dr's and what we hope to happen how we feel etc. I can't tell you all how much all of your words have helped me personally. I told her not to shoulder the worrying and just concentrate on eating healthier and taking better care of herself, but I know the worry is there as well as the fear. overall she is smiling and having a good visit with her mom while she is in town, but she's shed tears and been lethargic, but she's focused and alot of that is because of the comfort I have been able to provide because of what everyone here has told me. so thank you all I will keep you posted on her/our progress0 -
Great advice....corey50 said:Spinnr
i want to recommend a book to you and your girl. it's called "LIVING THROUGH BREAST CANCER" it was written by CAROLYN KAELIN. this woman is a surgical oncologist specializing in breast cancer at dana-farber cancer institute in boston. but she also had breast cancer herself and wrote this book in layman's terms so the average person can understand it.she talks about what she went thru herself too. it was published in 2005, when dealing with information on cancer its always best to get the most recent, so you may want to see if its been republished, but 4 years is not that long ago. this book was like my bible when i was going thru my surgery and treatment and stil to this day 4 yrs. later i still consult it now and again. this book wil help you to understand the reports and medical jargon. if not this book there are others out there.
the most important thing is not to get scared or worry about things that may never come to pass. like a surgery that she may not need. or chemo that she may not have to have. just take it one step at a time. this stuff is scary and you can drive yourself crazy sometimes reading all the bad things that can happen. so don't go there if you don't want to. don't let your girl read too much (especially on the internet). knowledge is one thing so you can ask informed questions but you don't have to treat this yourself, thats why these people go to medical school.
when you find a dr. that you trust you'll know.
you are doing the right thing using a notebook. every time you have a dr. visit write your questions and concerns on that page so you won't forget when you go and write the answers down to.
i know in an earlier post you mentioned that your girl might not want to go back and forth to md anderson cancer ctr. but sometimes you can go to these big hospitals for just a consult or second opinion and your local oncologist (if she needs treatment) can coordinate her care locally.
or you could even just contact them, they all have websites, to see if they recommend your surgeon or anybody else closer to your area.
the most important thing is to have a dr. that does alot of breast cancer surgeries, don't be ashamed to ask the dr. that question when you go, "how many of these surgeries do you do in a week, month?"
what hospital would she have the surgery at? check with them on who they would recommend and are alot of these types of surgeries performed there. if you live in a really small town could she travel to a bigger one just for the surgery. for a lumpectomy you usually go home the same day.
i know its hard right now but tell your girl that we've all been there we've all gotten thru it and so will she. just know that God is with you every step of the way.
i know its hard but, after you've done a little homework and prepared for the dr. visit next week, why not take the weekend off from cancer. at least try not think about what may be and just relax. i know easier said than done. but again we've all had to do it or you'll go crazy. when your girl wants to talk be there to listen if she wants to go to a movie to take her mind off it, go ahead.
all the best and God Bless
Thanks for the good advice, Corey....
Spinnr1, I was told that if you ever go through life with 2-3 really good friends you should consider yourself blessed. Sounds like your friend is blessed to have you since you are showing the definition of a really good (stand by your side) friend!! You have come to the perfect place to get insight, wisdom, experience, and support.
I too have infilterating Ductal Carcinoma grade 3....
So far I am still in the testing (poking & proding) stages that require alot of waiting for results & answers (the waiting is the worst part for me!).
Wednesday I am scheduled for surgery (I will have a lumpectomy).
After that I will do radiation.
After that I will do Hormone therapy for 5 years.
Although before I came to this site I was confused, overwhelmed, and basically a nervous wreck, I soon learned that all of what I am about to go through is doable thanks to everyone here who either had been there, is there now or is just starting their journey. The best thing that has given me comfort is just knowing you are not alone out there. Perhaps you could encourage your friend to come on to the site and "browse" around a bit. I eavesdropped for days before I made myself known!! It may help her especially when you feel like your going to fall apart in the beginning.
Hang in there...be strong for her...and come back often. She'll be just fine with her friend & family by her side. I will keep her in my prayers.
Pammy 0
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