Hi Kazza,
Receiving pathology results is so difficult. It's extremely frustrating having to go back for further surgery. After my lumpectomy and sentinel node biopsy, I had a larger initial tumour than was expected with DCIS in tissue margins, need another re-excision (with more cells in margins) so I opted for a mastectomy (surgery #3) as I really didn't have much boob to start with. In my case, it was the best decision as a second tumour was found hiding in another part of my breast, these mucinous tumours don't show up well in mammograms. My sentinel node biopsy was successful, however 2 out of 5 nodes had micromets (cells) in them. It's a shame your nodes were missed. I've gone with the advice from my oncologists, according to the pathology, chemo for me is the best treatment. I was given a choice of going straight to a hormone treatment, but after asking what gave me the better prevention of recurrence, I've opted for chemo followed by hormone treament to be decided on later. Whatever treatment you're offered will be based on your pathology and type of tumour. My treatment is based on 40mm tumour, hormone receptor positive. Of course the list of side effects is as long as my arm, started yesterday, and so far so good. Taking one treatment at a time.
All the best with fighting the infection, it's so painful. After surgery # 2, I had to have iv antibiotics for mastectomy.
Take someone in with you with your questions, when you see your oncologist or surgeon. That always helps. Make sure your support person is aware of what your concerns are so they can ask your questions if you happen to forget. That has happened to me.
Take care now and rest up
Karen xx
