Many MyBCTeam members have shared similar experiences with recurrence in the lymph nodes and bones — you're definitely not alone in navigating this.
When breast cancer returns in the lymph nodes, it's called a regional recurrence. When it spreads to the bones, that's considered a distant recurrence (metastatic). Treatment Show Full Answer
Many MyBCTeam members have shared similar experiences with recurrence in the lymph nodes and bones — you're definitely not alone in navigating this.
When breast cancer returns in the lymph nodes, it's called a regional recurrence. When it spreads to the bones, that's considered a distant recurrence (metastatic). Treatment options depend on several factors:
- Your previous treatments (which is very relevant given your history)
- Your overall health
- How widespread the cancer is
- The type of breast cancer you have Since you've already had radiation, it's worth knowing there are limits to how much radiation the body can safely receive over a lifetime. Only a radiation oncologist can determine if more radiation is an option for you.
Common treatments for recurrence can include:
- Surgery to remove tumors and affected lymph nodes
- Chemotherapy (different regimens than before may be used)
- Bisphosphonates to help with bone pain and reduce fracture risk
- Immunotherapy options like Pembrolizumab, depending on cancer type
- Targeted therapies depending on your cancer's specific markers
It's really important to have a detailed conversation with your oncologist about what's changed since 2014 and what new options may now be available to you. Treatment has advanced quite a bit!
May 23
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