Expert: Claes-Gustaf Nordquist, M.D. - 12/17/2011

Question
Hello, four years ago I had a lumpectomy and then a mastectomy for microscopic invasive intraductal carcinoma.  I was then put onto tamoxifen which didnt work so ended up having an oopherectomy/hysterectomy and then put onto Arimidex.  My cancer was stage 1 microscopic, no node involvment and grade 3.  I am currently on Arimidex which is affecting me very badly, I can hardly walk.  I have stopped it twice for a week, after four days I have felt terrific and could walk again.  Do you have any idea of what my breast recurrence risk will be if I stop the Arimidex.  I have been on it since the oopherectomy a year ago and have another year to go. I have borderline osteoporosis and only one kidney left since all this started and am frightened that the Arimidex is going to damage everything further.  What should I do? (I have tried to speak to my doctor, but it seems she is keeping me to my appointment date at the end of January - I have also asked other doctors, but they told me to wait to see her which is ridiculous.!  Thank you.

Answer
Unfortunately it is impossible to give you some sort of percentage risk in this situation. Statistics gives us probabilities with regards to large numbers of cases not single cases like you. The choice is yours. But in your situation - and I'm not only a cancer doctor but also a cancer patient myself with extensive radiation therapy behind me - I would try to continue the treatment also for the remaining year. Good luck whatever you decide!


You can also reach me at: http://www.liveperson.com/professional/expert-profile.aspx?gsBMQvSJ0S4K1haAm6AtH
There is no limit to the number of questions there. Please note: NEW SITE!

Donations are also always welcome! No amount is too small, no amount is too big!