Hi, I’m new to the forum and wondered if anyone could help. I was diagnosed with breast cancer last April. I had DCIS and therefore a lumpectomy in my right breast and a sentinol node biopsy which was clear. This was later followed by a mastectomy because it was extensive and a reconstruction. I also had a lumpectomy in my left breast and full axillary clearance (lymph nodes involved were 2/20). My HER status is positive, grade 3. I’ve also had chemotherapy and radiotherapy.
The problem I’ve now encountered is that I’ve had to stop my herceptin treatments after only having 3 infusions (out of a possible 16) because my LVEF has dropped to less than 40%. I’ve been told by my oncologist that I’m not going to resume treatment and am currently taking analopril and will be seeing my a cardiogist in a couple of months. As you can imagine I’m very frightened of the cancer coming back and wondered if anyone else has been in this situation. I was told that the herceptin was an ‘insurance policy’ but am still worried. Looking at other forums i.e. HER2support some people mention having a break and then going back on Herceptin and also the drug lapatinib. My oncologist hadn’t heard of it although I mentioned the brand name Tykerb. Any advice would be greatly appreciated.
Lime
I had to stop Herceptin after 9 lots because my ejection fraction dropped to around 40%. I must admit I went into a panic and I constantly thought I was having heart pains etc, even though I had not felt anything before being told I had a problem.
I was immediately put on Ramapril, but this lowered my blood pressure too much, so this was changed to Candesartan. I have since been put on Bisoprolol (beta blocker) by my cardiologist. I have had a fancy echogram (with a contrast dye injected during the echogram) and I have to see my cardiologist every 3 months. My EF seems to be increasing already, but because it went so low I have been told I will not go back on the Herceptin.
I have not asked exactly what difference it makes, but like you, it was an insurance so hopefully will not make any difference to reoccurance rates.
Caroline
Hi Caroline
Thanks for replying. It is a worry and even though it is an insurance policy I only wish I could have had a few more treatments. Had my blood pressure checked today and it was a bit low. My analapril has been increased from 2.5mg to 5mg and the doctor said it could make me light headed so he might have to change it like you. Will wait to see whether I have the fancy echocardiogram when I see the cardiologist.
Mel