Metaplastic breast cancer

I have just be dx with metaplastic carcinoma. I am 45. I had a right mastecomy Feb. 25 and have done quite well so far. (Thankfully, I live in Toronto, Canada and did not have to chose my surgery based on insurance coverage) My tumor was 5.5 cm with a lot of tissue necrosis. It has taken them a long time to figure out exactly what I have (I swore it was an alien). I have seen the unofficial report and was also told there were 'non-specific spots on both lungs and on my liver.

I have developed a hard lump in my chest since the surgery and was told it was costochondritis (inflammation between the rib and sternum). The Dr. thought it was probably caused by the drain. Could very well be since they did not shorten the damn thing and I am pretty tiny. Anyway, I had an ultrasound on this hard lump yesterday and they chose to do a 3 needle biopsies with the cytologist out in the hall to look at the cells. My case was discussed at the tumor board the week before so they were aware that I had caused some concern.

Monday, April 6th I have my 1st appointment with the medical oncologist (who apparently everyone loves, including my aunt). After reading this message board and seeing how many people had this cancer spread to their lungs as well I am concerned. I am a singer and really do need my lungs. Until now I really have just been going with it and letting my faith and humor carry me. I figure it is what it is and let's just get on with dealing with it. (I still say alien although I do not remember being abducted...) Sounds like most have had bad reactions to the chemo. I have no idea what chemical cocktail I will have but once I know I will post it.

I am more concerned about this other lump because it hurts like hell. The loss of my breast is not a big deal to me really. Personally, I think a double would be easier to deal with then having an F cup hanging down (and I do mean hanging-have you noticed how much more it droops without the other one there to support it, seriously?).

I did notice messages about exposure to second hand smoke. I too had parents who smoked and was around it until I went to university. I found that very interesting.

I am curious as to how the people on the message board are doing. Please feel free to contact me.

Morning Rig63:

I am responding to your post because you made me laugh and you asked us too.  I had my first birthaday yesterday since the cancer was taken with a masectomy.  I went through all of the 5 months of chemo and 2 months of daily radiation.  I celebrate yestrday because I am alive and feel God has a purpose for my life. 

Anyway, I can so relate to the F cup comment.  You are the first person who I have read talk about it.  It sure didn't seem to droop that far before surgery.  I did notice a moderate droop as I am 53 but wow....that really intensifies it.  The thing I don't like the most is there is no cleavage.  Not that I like or liked to show cleavage but all of my tank tops or camis are carefully viewed so not show the ugly beginning of what used to be my breast.  That is main reason I want to get breast reconstruction.  I have to wait until after July but I am excited to do it.  My husband has been wonderfully support and has not made this request.  It is for me.   Then breast #2 will not be down by my belly button because I will get the sementry. 

Just thought I would put my two cents in.  Stay healthy, good luck with the treatment and look here for support.  It is amazing on the otherside of all of the treatments.  Take care and God Bless!

Deb

I am glad that someone else has noticed the drooping. I had knee surgery in 2007 and I really do not want to have to have it again because my remaining breast took out my knee. I do hope to have reconstruction/reduction but right now they are concerned about the new lump I am growing (perhaps a 3rd breast) and the spots on my lungs. I have not even started my treatment since this type of cancer is so rare (still sticking with alien abduction) and they are trying to figure it all out. I always wanted to be on Star Trek but I am sure there is an easier way. Hope your reconstruction provides the perkiness you desire and deserve. Do let me know how things go for you. I am always interested and willing to speak with others experiencing similar things. (Do you recall being aboard the Mother Ship??) Ok, really I am not nuts but laughing seems like the best way of dealing with all of this. Thank you for your response.

Honey, if you think you were attacked by aliens, imagine when Doc's discovered Stage 4 breast cancer that was NOT in my breasts!!! And when I go for my usual mammogram, and fill out that form where I tell them, "Yes I have breast cancer." "No, I have never had breast surgery." That always gets me called out into the hall like a bad child, while some poor medical person stammers around saying things like, "I have never heard of this". Then they call the rest of the staff to discuss this weird women. Personally, since a had a mammogram EVERY year, I wonder if I could get my money back..........