Is triple-positive breast cancer likely to spread to lymph nodes?

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From the information provided, it appears to be a localized cancer. However, further investigations are needed for confirmation. A PET CT ( Positron emission tomography-computed tomography) scan is recommended to assess the spread of cancer to other parts of the body, including lymph nodes. A biopsy may be necessary for lumps in various areas of the breast if planning for breast conservation surgery. If the cancer is confined to one location and the tumor is less than 0.79 inches (2 cm), a sentinel lymph node biopsy is advised. If the results are normal, radical surgery is suggested. Subsequent treatments, such as chemotherapy, targeted therapy, and hormonal treatment, will be determined post-surgery based on the histopathological report. Excess worry is unnecessary; the tumor appears fully curable at this stage. Nowadays, numerous treatment options are available, even for those in the advanced stages of breast cancer.

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Hello,

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I read your query and can understand your concern.

Triple-positive indicates hormonal positivity and HER2-neu (human epidermal growth factor receptor 2) positivity. Hormonal positivity is a positive prognostic factor, while HER2-neu positivity poses some challenges. However, HER2-neu-directed targeted therapy can mitigate its aggressiveness. This therapy, depending on final reports, is typically administered for a year. In terms of spread, it typically begins with lymph nodes before extending further. This process usually spans several months, contingent on the molecular profile. Larger tumors carry a higher risk of spreading compared to smaller tumors.

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Hello,

Welcome back to icliniq.com.

I read your query and can understand your concern.

Based on the current reports (attachments removed to protect the patient's identity), it appears to be early-stage breast cancer with a favorable prognosis. Following initial treatment, she will undergo one year of targeted therapy and daily hormonal pills for five to ten years. This regimen aims to reduce the risk of recurrence. At this stage, it seems she has a good chance of full recovery and can resume normal, healthy activities.

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Hello,

Welcome back to icliniq.com.

I read your query and can understand your concern.

Many nodes are usually removed during the operation and tested. However, in some cases, a sentinel lymph node biopsy can be conducted before surgery to check for nodal spread. If the sentinel lymph nodes indicate no cancer spread, there is no need to remove nodes during surgery. Lymph node removal can lead to chronic lymphedema or arm swelling, often lasting a lifetime. The more aggressive tumors are hormone-negative and HER2-positive (human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 positive), while triple-negative indicates negativity across all factors. HER2-positive with hormonal positivity is less aggressive than the upper two variants. "Aggressive" implies faster spreading, but it usually takes several months rather than days or weeks.

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