Is a PET scan for breast cancer needed after radiotherapy?

Question

Hello doctor,

My mother-in-law is 66 years old, and she is suffering from metastatic breast cancer in the left breast. She completed her eight courses of chemotherapy and is now undergoing radiation therapy.

What will be the next level of treatment for her?
After radiation therapy for three weeks, will she be alright?

Any kind of test, like a PET scan, should be taken to confirm the disease’s existence. We are taking care of her diet, and no sugar or oily foods are given to her. Due to the severe exaggeration of the piles problem, she also restricted eating spicy foods.

What else can be done to improve the success rate of the treatment?

Kindly help.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I read your query and can understand your concern.

After completing her radiation therapy, her oncologist will assess the treatment’s effectiveness and look for any remaining signs of cancer.

It is recommended to get a positron emission tomography scan to determine the current status of the disease and if any cancer cells remain active in the body.

After radiation, her treatment depends on how her cancer responds. Since she has already undergone chemotherapy and radiation, her doctor might consider hormonal therapy (if her cancer is hormone receptor-positive), targeted therapy such as HER2 (human epidermal growth factor receptor 2)-targeted treatments if she is HER2-positive, and immunotherapy are also options.

The treatment option depends on current health, overall progress, and the cancer’s response.

I would suggest the following:

Nutrient-rich foods that are easy on digestion can be very beneficial.
For patients with piles, fiber-rich foods can reduce straining.
If she is able to do light physical activities, such as walking or stretching exercises, it can help improve circulation, digestion, mood, and energy levels.
Encourage meditation, deep breathing exercises, or even gentle yoga to help improve her well-being.
Keep hydrated.
Continue a diet with minimal spices.
Regular follow-up with a treating doctor.

Kindly consult a physician, discuss with them, and start taking the medications with their consent.

I hope this helps.

Thank you, and take care.

Regards.