Ductal cell carcinoma new diagnosis

Hi, I’ve been diagnosed after a core biopsy, then a vacuum biopsy, ultra sounds and mammograms, I’m waiting on the results of a CESM, my problem is I don’t know what to believe from information from websites such as this and what my consultant has said, I came from the hospital thinking this condition is unlikely to come back after treatment but reading on here it says it’s highly likely to return, I am oestrogen positive and her2 positive which I understand raises the risk of spread and reoccurrence, I’m very confused, scared and emotional I also have bipolar and this is worsening

  • Hello and thanks for posting

    I'm sorry to read about your situation. This must be a difficult time especially with the added stress of having bipolar disorder.

    HER2-positive breast cancer has a tendency to grow faster if it is untreated. However, there are specific drugs designed to target HER2, and these have greatly improved the chances of successful treatment reducing the risk of recurrence.

    Being oestrogen positive means there are additional treatments available that can help reduce the risk of the cancer returning. Being HER2-positive and oestrogen positive does not automatically mean your cancer is likely to come back.

    The chance of recurrence depends on many things, including the size of the cancer, whether lymph nodes are involved, and how the cancer responds to treatment.

    The CESM scan is often carried out to get a clearer picture of the cancer and help plan treatment. It does not automatically mean they think it has spread.

    You probably do not have all the information needed to know about your individual circumstances. More importantly, from what you’ve written, it suggests your consultant feels your outlook is very good after treatment. They know far more about your individual cancer as they are familiar with all your medical details.

    Do let your breast care nurse, GP, or mental health team know that this diagnosis is making your bipolar symptoms worse. They can offer you further support with this.

    I hope this is of some use. 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.

    Kind regards,

    Celene