Expert: Claes-Gustaf Nordquist, M.D. - 2/26/2008

Question
I have been diagnosed with Metaplastic breast cancer at age 59, Diagnosis is Poorly differentiated mataplatic carcinoma with tumor necrosis. Metaplastic carcinoma composed of squamous cell carcinoma, adnosquamous carcinoma, adenocarcinoma and metaplastic spindle cells.
Poorly differentiated (grade 3)
Tumor size 4.2, high grade DCIS is present, lymph negative, estrogen and progesterone positive
Her2 negative.
I have had a lumpecdtomy with lymphnode removal.  I have completed Chemotherapy (Atromycin and cytoxin, 4 times, Taxane 4 times and am currenly on Herceptin every 3 weeks for a year)
I have had Genetic testing andmy results were BRCA1 sequencing, G890V, Uncertain significance.
I am trying to decide between radiation therapy or bilateral mastectomy.  There is very little information on this type of cancer and my doctors seem unsure on how to treat it.  I would appreciate any information you can give me.
Thank you,
Lynn

Answer
Well, if I were you I would probably accept the radiation therapy, but be very careful to have regular breast check ups including mammography, MRI & ultrasound scans. I do not think I would accept bilateral mastectomy. But then again I can not be sure, it is not a choice that it is probable that I will have to face. Probably, in view of of the positive hormone receptors also (anti)hormonal treatment should at least be considered.