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Lymphovascular invasion

Debbiek49
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Hi

Hoping someone can help me here. Diagnosed in April with a large tumour in breast and lots of dcis. Had 6 lots of chemo , then 4 weeks ago my mastectomy and sentinel node biopsy. Collected my results last week , great I thought no lymph nodes affected. I ve received my letter today which says there was lymphovascular invasion found , the consultant did nt even speak to me about this in the meeting so I was clueless. Had to Google to see what it was and now I m scared to death zgsin after feeling so positive. Has anyone else had this in their results and does it really mean the chance of recurrence is increased massively??

Thanks

  • Hello and thank you for your post.

    I am sorry to hear that you are being treated for breast cancer.

    LVI ( Lymphovascular Invasion) means that cancer cells have been found in tiny lymph vessels near your breast.  However, because your lymph nodes have no cancer in them this means that your cancer has not spread.  Having LVI could increase the risk of the cancer spreading therefore you might need to have additional treatment after surgery to reduce this risk. This could be radiotherapy and/or chemotherapy.  Also if your cancer is oestrogen positive you will be given hormonal treatment , this will also reduce the risk of the cancer coming back. 

    Another charity called Breast Cancer Now have information about the pathology report given after surgery, this includes information about LVI, you can see it on their website here 

    While I know this might seem worrying you have to remember that your outlook is still likely to be very good. Do speak with your breast care nurse about it. 

    Please get back to us if you need any more information or support.  You may find it helpful to talk things through with one of the nurses on our helpline.  The number to call is Freephone 0808 800 4040 and the lines are open from 9am till 5pm Monday to Friday.

    Take care,

    Caroline 

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