You Have Been Diagnosed with Breast Cancer

To make a definitive diagnosis of breast cancer, cells or tissue must be removed by surgery or with a needle from the abnormal area of the breast. They are then examined under the microscope. The procedure that removes cells or tissue is called a biopsy. If a biopsy confirms cancer, a number of tests may be performed to determine if the breast cancer has spread to other organs.

Answers to these questions will help you to better understand your diagnosis:

• What did my biopsy or needle aspiration (surgery with a needle to remove fluid or cells) show?
• What kind of breast cancer do I have? What is the stage of my disease? What is the size of my tumor? Has the cancer spread to my lymph nodes or other parts of my body (metastasized)?
• What tests were done on the tumor and what were the results (i.e. estrogen and progesterone receptor status). What effect will the results of these tests have on my treatment options?
• Who will coordinate my care?
• Will the lymph nodes under my arm be checked for cancer? If so, how will this affect my treatment options?
• What tests will I have before surgery to see if the cancer has spread to any other organs (liver, lungs, bones)?
• What do you recommend for treatment? Will you refer me to an oncologist for treatment recommendations?
• How can I get a copy of my pathology report?
• What is my prognosis (chance of recovery)?

Questions About Treatment Options
In deciding on the best treatment plan several factors are examined; age, tumor stage and estrogen receptor (ER) status. However deciding on a treatment is as much a personal matter for you as it is a medical one. The type of treatment you decide upon should be based on the treatment’s risks and benefits and how they relate to your own values and lifestyle.

• Answers to these questions will help you to determine the best treatment plan
• What are my treatment options? What are you recommending for me and why?
• What is your opinion about breast conserving surgery (lumpectomy) followed by radiation therapy? Am I a candidate for this type of treatment? (Note that anyone considering this option should also consult with a radiation oncologist). Will a sentinel lymph node biopsy be done?
• Will I need additional (adjuvant) treatment (radiation therapy, chemotherapy and or hormonal therapy) following my surgery? Can you refer me to a radiation oncologist for radiation therapy and a medical oncologist for discussing the possible need for chemotherapy or hormonal therapy?
• Can breast reconstruction be done at the time of surgery, as well as later? Can you refer me to a reconstructive surgeon before my initial surgery?
• If I choose not to have reconstruction, what types of breast prostheses are available? Where can I buy breast prosthesis? Is it covered by my insurance?
• How long do I have to make a treatment decision? What will my insurance cover?
• Are there overseas clinical trials that are enrolling patients with my type of breast cancer? If so how can I learn more about them?