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Hi Don, where I in the same situation, and yes I do have some gynecomastia as a result of 9 months of ADT, I would choose to radiate both breasts. I am happy to discuss further with you in some detail if required
John:
After I collect a little more data, I most certainly want to discuss the radiation solution with you.
I much appreciate the feedback and the opportunity to explore this option further with you.
Don O.
John
How would you like to proceed with our discussion? This forum will work for me, if it will work for you, and we may educate a few others in the process by using it.
Here are a few questions to get us started:
(1) Why radiation?
(A) Will this option reduce or eliminate existing symptoms
(B) Will this option arrest further development
(C) Expected side effects
(2) For what reasons have you rejected other treatment options you may have considered?
(3) I considered radiation prior to starting hormone therapy. Dr Myers advised me not to do so because of its cancer causing aspect. Why have
you not taken any preventative or curative measures to date?
Sorry for the delay in replying Don. Unfortunately I have not been too flash myself lately. My ticker is dicky!
I think Dr Myers summed up your options very well. Anyway to your questions:
(1) Why radiation?
I guess the convenience of a relatively short treatment cycle. 4 to 12 Gy is the norm over a few fractions.
(A) Will this option reduce or eliminate existing symptoms??
The symptoms yes, the appearance no.
(B) Will this option arrest further development?
It should.
(C) Expected side effects?
Aside from erythema none due to the low fractional dosage.
(2) For what reasons have you rejected other treatment options you may have considered?
Your current treatment regime is a balancing act, even for a very experienced Medical Oncologist Don. Surgery, well how keen would you be to have a mastectomy now? Not very, I would think. So that just leaves Taxene and Oestrogen suppressors, but as a continued therapy.
(3) I considered radiation prior to starting hormone therapy. Dr Myers advised me not to do so because of its cancer causing aspect. Why have you not taken any preventative or curative measures to date?
I had 9 months of neo adjuvant ADT prior to my EBRT back in 2008. While the breast tenderness subsided over time, my man boobs remained. My lovely wife has indicated that I might need a training bra had they grew any larger. So yes I do have them, but frankly it does not fuss me too much. I guess my main gripe was the tenderness which I do not have anymore.
Just for anyone reading this thread, if you also have also man boobs as Don and I have, then breast checking for lumps should be undertaken. IF you feel any, then inform your medical practitioner post haste.
John:
Thank you so much for your detailed, thoughtful and timely response. Much appreciated! Sorry to hear about your dicky ticker. Wish you nothing but the very best.
Don O.
