The Specs

In initial conversations with Kathy about the blog, one of the things we decided was not to give so much information that readers would become cancer experts!  On the other hand, the teacher in me can't resist the opportunity to point people in the direction of knowledge.  The online world makes that so easy!  So here is the "spec sheet" for Kathy's cancer, with a link for further illumination, if desired.

Kathy's Breast Cancer

Type:  Invasive Lobular Carcinoma (ILC)
Prevalence:  20,000 women in U. S. per year, about 20% of all breast cancers
Most Common Type:  Invasive Ductal Carcinoma (IDC)

Comparison:
Outlook for ILC more favorable than IDC
ILC more difficult to find with mammogram, usually larger at detection than IDC

Hormone effects:  Hormone receptor positive, so this cancer is affected by hormones (estrogen or progesterone--I don't remember which one) and tamoxifen is being used.

Symptoms:  Can cause thickening of breast tissue rather than a lump.  Can also cause changes in skin texture. (This is important for people to know!  You aren't just looking for lumps when you do a breast exam!)

The Diagnostic Tests:  Mammogram followed by (in no particular order) ultrasound, MRI, and biopsy (am I missing anything, Kathy, seems like you had it all!)

Immediate plan:  Two rounds of kemo, with 4 infusions each.  Each infusion spaced two weeks apart (on Thursdays). 

Later:  Radiation and surgery then back to normal!