The first 60 days post diagnosis are the most chaotic of the longer term haul. Endless diagnostic testing, labs, consults etc. For those who lack general understanding (or compassion in some cases) of what this entails, the following list details the process from initial diagnosis through the start of Tamoxifen or hormone suppressor of choice and the long term side effects. Beyond the physical process, there are a lot of mental hoops. Below are the things that a woman will routinely go through in the first three months after diagnosis regardless of stage.
- CAD/3D mammogram
- Diagnostic ultrasound
- Ultrasound biopsy
- Blood work for BRCA genetic testing
- LDEX baseline for lymphodema
- Bilateral MRI with IV contrast
- Pre surgery blood panels
- Titanium SEED placement in breast pre surgery
- Lumpectomy
- Sentinel lymph node biopsy
- Post surgical appointment
- Management of nerve damage/repair (pain and numbness)
- Oncotype DX testing
- Oncology consult
- Integrative Care consult
- Metabolic panels
- Radiation consult
- Radiation Simulation/Mapping for marker placement
- Radiation test run through post treatment plan development
- 2O days of Radiation with 4 weekly visits to Radiologist for to evaluate skin burns and fatigue
- Breast Center follow up consult
- LDEX post op screening
- Physical therapy for truncal cording and rib pain
- Start Tamoxifen for 5 years, every day
- Integrative Care follow up to manage Tamoxifen side effects (joint pain, hair loss, uterine thickening, brain fog, hot flashes, cataracts)
- Continued scans every 3-6 months indefinitely
- Fear every day of spread or return
Cancer stages have no bearing on the mental wear and tear, financial drain and physical toll cancer can take on a patient or their family.
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