I am having 5 days a week radiation for 1 month. Very scared.
June 25
Are you navigating what to do after a DCIS surgery where the margins came back close, and now facing a radiation consultation? That's a really common and important crossroads to be at.
With DCIS, a lumpectomy removes the tumor plus a surrounding border of healthy tissue. "Close margins" means cancer cells were found nearer Show Full Answer
Are you navigating what to do after a DCIS surgery where the margins came back close, and now facing a radiation consultation? That's a really common and important crossroads to be at.
With DCIS, a lumpectomy removes the tumor plus a surrounding border of healthy tissue. "Close margins" means cancer cells were found nearer to the edge of that removed tissue than doctors would like — which can raise the risk of cancer returning in that area. Here's what typically happens next:
- Re-excision surgery may be recommended to remove more tissue and achieve clearer margins
- Radiation therapy is often recommended after lumpectomy, and especially so when margins are close, to target any remaining cancer cells
- Mastectomy may be discussed if clear margins are difficult to achieve, particularly if DCIS is widespread
Radiation after lumpectomy is actually the most common treatment path for DCIS — nearly 50% of people go this route. Going into a radiation consultation, it helps to ask your care team:
- How close are the margins exactly?
- Is re-excision needed before radiation?
- What type of radiation is recommended and for how long?
- Are there clinical trials available?
Sharing your preferences and concerns openly with your specialist will help shape a plan that's right for you. You've got this! 💙
June 19
You will be ok. Tell the radiologist and team that you are scared. They will
Help.
June 25
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