Expert: Claes-Gustaf Nordquist, M.D. - 1/9/2012

Question
My Niece just found out she has breast cancer, she's in her early 50s. Her doctor told her good news bad news,  the good news is it's what they call 0 stage because it's very early.
If breast cancer is at 0 stage, I'm assuming that means that there's an excellent chance for survival.  People have said well cancer is cancer.  May not be.  Hard for me to believe.  Her doctor finished the conversation by saying everything is going to be fine. He said it will be an in and out procedure, (a lumpectomy)..and they will examine one lymph node, that will determine future treatment..I would think radiation.  I hardly think Chemo therapy is necessary.  I just wanted to know if you
agree with this that 0 stage is very very good. I know people that have had 2 and 3 stage and are still here, although they had to have chemo.  thank you

Answer
Yes if indeed it is a stage 0 breast cancer (= cancer in situ = cancer only in its site of origin) then her prognosis should be good and if not too big a lumpectomy should be the only SURGICAL procedure. BUT in MY OPINION she SHOULD also have radiation therapy of the affected breast! They will check the so called "sentinel lymph node" to see if any cancer has spread to it. If not no chemotherapy will be necessary. If however it has spread to there she is a stage 3 case and chemotherapy is NECESSARY! Good luck!



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