Recurrence And Survival

Much like the risk factors for breast cancer, there is no exact science for determining the likelihood of a recurrence; only educated estimates based on the type of cancer and what treatments were employed. There are three types of recurrence which include local (in the same area as the first cancer), regional (has spread to the lymph nodes nearest the original cancer), and distant (has spread to different areas of the body). Using the chart below as a guide, the likelihood of each type of recurrence can be found based on what type of surgery was originally performed.

The treatment options for a recurrence differ based on the original breast cancer treatment surgery as well as the type of recurrence. If you have a local recurrence following breast conserving surgery the main options are mastectomy, chemotherapy, or hormone treatment. Similarly, if the local recurrence happens after a mastectomy your primary options are another surgery, radiation therapy, hormone therapy and chemotherapy.

If you suffer a regional recurrence, surgery to remove the axillary nodes or some type of radiation therapy will most likely be employed.

If the recurrence is distant, also known as metastasis, the treatment options are greatly diminished and focus more on prolonging, maintaining, and improving quality of life. The average woman with metastasis survives between two and three years, with only ten percent living longer than ten.

In all instances your doctor will recommend a treatment schedule that best addresses your cancer based on its size, type, and the previous treatments utilized.

**This website should be used as an educational tool only. If you suspect you have symptoms of breast cancer, please contact a licensed physician for diagnosis and treatment.**