TNBC and BRCA genetics

Hi aoluser - how are you doing,well I hope.  I found out I had BRCA 1 in October 2010 and had a complete hysterectomy in Feb 2011. I was asked what I wanted to do about my breasts and said I would deal with them when needed, not knowing my regular mammagram in November 2012 showed the time was so close. I had a double mastectomy and reconstruction with tissue expanders on 28th Nov. My stage was 3 but no lympth nodes. Hope this helps a bit.  Leanne  Xxx

 

Hello, Liz!

Thank you! What stage was your TNBC? Did you have any lymp nodes involved? 

Have you decieded to do breast reconstruction? thank you!

I had TNBC and did genetic testing. When I found out that I had BRAC1 it helped me and my surgeon make decisions about what surgery to do. I chose to have the double mastectomy; however, that is a personal choice. It is best to discuss that with your specialists.

All the best,

Liz

Hello Sue, 

Thank you for your answer. I do appreciate it. I am from Latvia and here this test is for free for everyone. Maybe you can also answer the question.  would you recommend full mastectomy or leave some skin? Or ir is better to remove all skin? As our doctor said that the radiation therapy is not given after the full mastectomy but I do want my relative have the radiotherapy.   My relative wants to remove everything and do not want to have any reconstruction.Would you recommend also to remove the second breast? (double mastectomy)  

HI - I have had this conversation with both my Onc and Surgeon.  In Australia to get tested for the gene you either have to pay the $3000 or if you have a strong family history of Breast and Ovarian cancer can go on the public testing list.  Just because you have TNBC does not mean you have the gene.  However, if you like myself have Mother, Aunts, Sister, Grandmother etc. who have all have had Breast Cancer you need to get tested.Having the gene means that you are more likely to develop breast and ovarian cancer in the future - it does not mean you will get it.  You also need to make the decision if you want both breasts and ovaries removed to reduce your risk.  Only 5-10% of all BC is caused by the Mutation and only 10-20% of all TNBC is caused by the mutation.You should talk to your specialist or GP if you are worried - but in the meantime don't panic.  Their is a lot of information on this site that you can read regarding the BRCA gene.  Hope this helps.  Sue