My mum (just 85) was diagnosed with breast cancer in April, and treated with Letrazole. The tumours shrank - fantastic - until a bone scan in October revealed secondaries in her bones. Medication has now been changed to Tamoxifen. Medical staff seemed surprised that the cancer had spread so rapidly and that the Letrazole was no longer working, given cancer spread in older ladies is usually much slower. Also, they said that initial medication usually works for 18 months to 2 years.
She had pain in her ribs, which is where the secondaries were confirmed - but now the pain is between her shoulder blades (not her ribs). However, there was no cancer in her back in October, when the bone scan was done, although that is where the radiotherapy is being targeted next week. Why there?
Most of you posting on the forum seem to be much younger when originally diagnosed with breast cancer - are there any older posters who can help to clarify the somewhat muddled situation mum seems to be in at the moment?
I think that a lot of us are younger is really to do with the generation that is happy o use the internet - I know my father and mother in law would never post on a site as they would be a little scared of the technology! Now I am sure a super grandmother will come here and add something , but I think thats really the reason for the age profile here,
Medically although there may be differences in rate of growth - there are no special questions for older women. I think that your question for your mom is perfectly reasonable and you should ask if you can - why are they targeting the spine (back) ? I am afraid it implies there is something there …you need the doctors to tell you why - otherwise you /We are just guessing.
Has your mum being given anything to strengthen her bones- bispophonates ? A large number are available in tablets and they will help to strengthen the bones, and prevent fractures or anything like thta happening. It should be standard for someone with bone mets to have these- you should press for this if she is not having them. It would not be invasive or difficult to organise…I think if she is having pain this should be done.
Your mum is lucky to have a daughter that seeks out information and cares so much - hope you have a nice christmas together.
Cathy