I had a primary breast cancer, had a lumpectomy and lymph nodes removed. No cancer found in the nodes. My question. If it came back in the same breast or the other. Is that described as terminal..?
If breast cancer comes back in the same breast it is called a local recurrence. If it appears in the other breast then this would be classified as a new primary breast cancer. This can often be treated effectively with further surgery, radiotherapy or other treatments as recommended by the breast care team.
It sounds from what you have described that you had an early cancer which has not spread to nearby lymph nodes and as a result is less likely to spread in the future.
Your breast care team or nurse specialist can advise you further on this as they are familiar with all your medical details.
I hope this is of some help. Give us a ring if you would like to talk anything over. The number to call is Freephone 0808 800 4040 and the lines are open from 9am till 5pm Monday to Friday.
I was diagnosed with a primary cancer in one breast and had a lumpectomy. There was no lymph node involvement. Less than a year later I discovered another lump, in the same breast. This was also cancerous. This was a second primary cancer. I had a double mastectomy and I still lead a busy and fulfilling life, even though that was all 14 years ago now.
