Sequence of Treatment for Breast Cancer
Breast cancer is a type of cancer that occurs when the cells in a person's breast start growing uncontrollably.
The usual sequence of treatment for breast cancer involves a combination of different therapies, depending on the stage and characteristics of the cancer. It is important to understand some key terminology related to breast cancer treatment. Here's a breakdown of the usual sequence of treatment and important terms to know:
- Surgery: Surgery is often the first step in treating breast cancer. There are two main types of surgical procedures:
- Lumpectomy: This involves removing the tumor and a small margin of healthy tissue surrounding it, while preserving the rest of the breast.
- Mastectomy: This is a procedure to remove the entire breast, and in some cases, the lymph nodes under the arm may also be removed.
- Radiation therapy: After surgery, radiation therapy may be recommended to kill any remaining cancer cells and reduce the risk of recurrence. This treatment uses high-energy radiation to target and destroy cancer cells.
- Chemotherapy: Chemotherapy involves using drugs to kill cancer cells throughout the body. It is often used before surgery (neoadjuvant) or after surgery (adjuvant) to shrink tumors, determine response to therapy, or treat advanced stages of breast cancer.
- Hormonal therapy: Hormonal therapy is used for certain types of breast cancer that are hormone receptor positive. It involves using drugs that block the action of hormones, such as estrogen, which can fuel the growth of these types of breast cancers. It is often given after surgery. Sometimes it is given before surgery to try to shrink the tumor.
- Targeted therapy: Targeted therapy uses drugs that specifically target proteins or pathways involved in the growth and spread of cancer cells. It is often used for specific subtypes of breast cancer, such as HER2-positive breast cancer. It is often given after surgery. Sometimes it is given before surgery to try to shrink the tumor.
It's important to note that treatment plans and the sequence of treatment can vary based on individual factors such as the stage of breast cancer, hormone receptor status, and HER2 (human epidermal growth factor receptor 2) status. These factors help determine which treatments are most effective for each person's specific type of breast cancer.
Additionally, it's crucial to stay updated on cutting-edge and standard treatment patterns as new approaches and refinements in therapies are constantly being evaluated and may become part of standard treatment protocols.
Remember, it's always best to consult with a healthcare professional who can provide personalized advice based on your specific situation.
Medication dosing may be affected by many factors. Check with your health care professional about dosing for your individual situation. Other side effects can occur. Check with your health care professional or read the information provided with your medication for additional side effect information.