Hi roxywanda
Thanks for posting.
It’s understandable to ask what all the different terms mean on your results letter following your mastectomy and axillary node clearance.
Although we are unable to comment on individual pathology results and explain what the terms may mean for you, we can explain some of the terms you mention.
You mention that the letter says a focus of low-grade ductal carcinoma in situ, this is an early form of non-invasive breast cancer and is often referred to as DCIS. You can read about the different grades here.
You also ask about having a positive lymph node without having lymphovascular invasion.
The breast contains blood vessels and other tiny tubes called lymph vessels. If breast cancer cells spread into these vessels, it’s called lymphovascular invasion. This increases the chances of the breast cancer spreading to somewhere else in the body. Having lymphovascular invasion is different from having breast cancer in the lymph nodes. Our booklet understanding your pathology results has further information that you may find helpful.
You say that you had an appointment to discuss your results, but not everything in your letter was explained. Your treatment team are best placed to discuss what your surgery results mean for you, and where the focus of DCIS was within the breast and if it was the second lump that was biopsied. If you have a breast care nurse it may be helpful to contact her so that she can answer any further questions you have.
We offer a range of free supportive services for anyone who has had a diagnosis of breast cancer which you may be interested in.
We are currently evaluating this service and would appreciate your feedback. Please click here to the survey. It should take approximately 10 minutes to complete.
Do call our helpline if you would like to talk this through or have any further questions. The helpline team have time to listen to your concerns, talk things through and signpost you to more support and information. Your call will be confidential, and the number is free from UK landlines and all mobile networks. The number is 0808 800 6000, (Relay UK -prefix 18001).
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Best wishes
Louise
Breast Care Nurse
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