|
Breast Cancer Treatment
"It was very important for me to have something to do rather than just sitting home feeling sorry for myself. I think recovery is helped immensely by getting involved and having a purpose and moving ahead." —Val Ogden, Washington State representative (retired)
Breast cancer occurs when the cells in your breast grow abnormally, forming tumors with uncontrolled growth. The major types of breast cancer are ductal (arising in the lining of the ducts) and lobular (arising in the lobes). Cancer cells may be found in lymph nodes under the arms.
If left untreated, breast cancer may metastasize (spread), sending cancerous cells to form tumors in other parts of the body. Fortunately, having an annual mammogram helps detect breast cancer early, making it easier to diagnose and treat successfully.
Genetic Factors
Some women have what's called HER2-positive breast cancer. HER2 refers to a gene that helps cells grow, divide, and repair themselves. When cells have too many copies of this gene, cells (including cancer cells) grow faster. Experts think that women with HER2-positive breast cancer have a more aggressive disease and a higher risk of recurrence than those who do not have this type.
Some people have genes that make them more prone to developing breast cancer. The most common gene defects are found in the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes. These genes normally produce proteins that protect you from cancer. But if a parent passes you a defective gene, you have an increased risk for breast cancer. Women with one of these defects have up to an 80% chance of getting breast cancer sometime during their life.
Treatment Options
Your diagnostic information will be used to determine the type of breast cancer and its stage. The TNM (tumor, mode, metastases) status is a common tool used to stage the cancer, to see how best to treat you.
You may receive some combination of surgery, radiation therapy, and/or chemotherapy. For example, Southwest's non-invasive, pain-free CyberKnife® stereotactic radiosurgery system may be a treatment option. In addition, Southwest's Lymphedema Specialty Clinic can also help address problems that may arise. You may also want to consider breast reconstruction early in the treatment planning to preserve as many options as possible.
Additional Resources
In addition to the Kearney Breast Center, Southwest offers many resources, including:
Contact Us
Kearney Breast Center
200 NE Mother Joseph Place, Suite 420
Vancouver, WA 98665
360.514.6161 (Breast Center main number)
360.514.6164 (Nurse Navigator)
360.891.2642 (Radiologists)
360.213.9955 or 503.808.9803 (Southwest Medical Group Surgical Specialists)
360.989.3494 (Southwest Medical Group Plastic Surgery)
|
