Ask an Expert is a free question-and-answer service about breast cancer and breast health that is available on weekends. If you'd like to ask a question or comment, please visit us again on Saturday or Sunday. In the meantime, please search the existing topics using the search tool at the top of the page. It's quite possible that one of our many existing topics already addresses your question.
If you would like a consultation with a breast specialist at the Johns Hopkins Avon Foundation Breast Center, call 443-778-2778. It is possible to get an appointment for a second opinion within a few days of contacting us.
We hope you find the information helpful!
| Forum | Questions | Ask a Question | |
|---|---|---|---|
 |
Questions to ask to ensure you are in good hands Questions on what to ask to make sure your in good hands. |
1,751 |  |
| Asked | Publicly Submitted Question | ||
|---|---|---|---|
| 12/17/2011 | hi, i have stage 0 dcis, intermediate grade, tumor size .3mm. i had a lumpectomy on dec 1. my margins are clear 7 mm away from the tumor. My breast surgeon suggests radiation plus tamoxifen or a double masectomy. I refuse to do radiation. i saw the medical oncologist and she feels there is n need for radiation, just to take the tamoxifen for 5 years. what are the chances of recurrence if i just do the tamoxifen? i am 38 years old, please let me know. i have to make the decision soon. | ||
| Replied | JHU's Breast Center Reply | ||
| 12/17/2011 | you have a long life ahead of you. Risk of local recurrence in the breast is 25-30% or higher and it is reduced to 15-25% by taking tamoxifen. you are a candidae for a genetics evaluation and for those who carry a gene then risk is much much higher-- can be 80%. whenever lumpectomy is done it is to be with the agreement from the patient that radiation will follow. So rethink this through. radiation is well tolerated and today with few side effects short and long term. | ||
Please note: This service is not intended to provide primary medical advice concerning specific medical care or treatment. Ask an Expert is a free service operated by health care professionals at the Johns Hopkins Avon Foundation Breast Center. Due to the volume of questions and their complexity, there are times when medical oncologists, surgeons, radiation oncologists or oncology nurses are consulted for their input. These individuals volunteer their time for this service and will respond as soon as they are able. Please do not post or send the same question to us in multiple locations or categories.