W.R., a 32-year-old woman, felt a small, hard, painless lump in her left breast
ID: 101737 • Letter: W
Question
W.R., a 32-year-old woman, felt a small, hard, painless lump in her left breast during regular self-examination. The lump did not disappear during the next few days, so she went to her physician for an examination. Tests followed, and a biopsy confirmed the presence of a malignant tumor. The tumor (1.5 cm) was removed, as well as five lymph nodes, two of which contained malignant cells. No other metastases appeared to be present. Courses of radiation and chemotherapy were recommended following a 6-week recovery period, and the prognosis appeared good. Which activities led to the good prognosis? Why were the lymph nodes checked? Why are radiation and chemotherapy recommended in this case? Describe three possible side effects of treatment.Explanation / Answer
1. The practice of self examination & early approach by the woman and early detection & treatment by the clinician led to good prognosis.
2. Lymph nodes were checked as they are usually involved in the breast cancer. If not treated, they may lead to recurrence and further spread of the cancerous cells.
3. Radiotherapy and chemotherapy is recommended to render the resection margins negative and decrease the chances of recurrence. Some of the possible side effects are infertility, leukemias, neuropathies, nausea, hair loss etc
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