HER2+, Stage 2, Grade 3 here, now out of treatment for 6 years and so far, so good! However, since there was no hormones involved in my markers- no hormone blockers prescribed as a follow-up. Keeping you in prayers!
February 1
Are you looking to connect with others who've experienced metastatic breast cancer years after initial treatment?
While breast cancer can recur even years after a mastectomy, each person's journey is unique. Approximately 5 out of every 100 women who get a mastectomy experience a return of cancer to the chest area within Show Full Answer
Are you looking to connect with others who've experienced metastatic breast cancer years after initial treatment?
While breast cancer can recur even years after a mastectomy, each person's journey is unique. Approximately 5 out of every 100 women who get a mastectomy experience a return of cancer to the chest area within 10 years of their initial diagnosis.
A MyBCTeam member named Becky shared a similar experience. She was diagnosed with stage 2 HER2-positive breast cancer in 2014, had a mastectomy, chemotherapy, and reconstructive surgery. Four-and-a-half years later, she developed back pain that turned out to be metastatic breast cancer that had spread to her bones.
When metastatic breast cancer is diagnosed after remission, your oncologist will likely perform a biopsy on the metastatic tumors to determine their hormone receptor and HER2 status, as these can differ from your original diagnosis. This information is crucial for determining the most effective treatment approach.
Treatment options for metastatic breast cancer have improved significantly and may include:
- Chemotherapy
- Hormonal therapy
- Targeted therapy (especially for HER2-positive cancer)
- Immunotherapy
- Radiation therapy for specific areas
Many people with metastatic breast cancer are living longer than ever before, with some living 10 or more years beyond diagnosis.
February 1