Hi, has anyone else been diagnosed with a rare form of breast cancer called METAPLASTIC?
I was diagnosed with a 3.1cm, grade 3, slightly hormone driven BC july 2009 at aged 33.went through 6 sessions of FEC and 15 sessions of radiotherapy and now on tamoxifan 20mg. But I don’t seem to be able to find anyone of any age who has had this type of BC.
So it Would be really good to hear from other people if you have had this cancer too and how you are coping with having a rare BC that appears to have so little info.
Sorry I can’t help with this - just wanted to bump it up the list so others see it. Maybe it would be worth putting metaplastic in the title of the thread as well?
Metaplastic breast cancer, also called metaplastic carcinoma of the breast, is a rare type of breast cancer that is very different from the typical ductal or lobular breast cancer. It describes a cancer that begins in one type of cell (such as those from the glands of the breast) and changes into another type of cell. Metaplastic carcinoma of the breast describes a range of cancers of mixed epithelial cells (cells that line the breast) and mesenchymal cells (the connective tissue of the breast). Most cases of metaplastic breast cancer start in the epithelial cells, and then change into squamous (nonglandular) cells. Because the cells that give rise to metaplastic breast cancer are not part of the normal breast gland, this cancer does not have estrogen receptors (ERs), progesterone receptors (PRs), or HER2 (a protein found in 25% of breast cancers).
Metaplastic breast cancer is considered an invasive cancer, meaning that it has already spread beyond the duct or lobe at the time of diagnosis.
Extract from Oncologist-approved cancer information from the American Society of Clinical Oncology
Welcome to the forums, I am sure you will find it helpful and supportive.
If you would like to find out more about your diagnosis or have any questions please do give the BCC helpline a call. Here you can talk to one of our trained members of staff who will be able to provide you with additional information and support.
The number is 0808 800 6000 and lines are open 9-5 Monday to Friday and 9-2 Saturday.
I hope you get more information given to you by your medical team, being diagnosed with BC is a tough time and you need all the support you can get! This forum is wonderful and has been a lifeline for me since my dx with ILC in Feb10.
xxxxhugs, Tina.
Hi Bigbear
I’m so pleased to hear it’s not just me! I was also diagnosed with Metaplastic BC aged 33 in May last year. I have found one other lady with it so far, she’s of a similar age and in germany at the chemo stage of her treatment.
My medical team didn’t really explain what this type involves, just treated it aggressively (like you, had 6 FEC then 25 rads and now on Tamoxifen). Anytime I’ve asked about it I don’t get much information as it is rare, but they put my mind at rest about it a bit. I have been trying to research it on the internet and not found much out. Thanks Tina for the information you found out.
Do you know anything else about it? I’ve got another appt with my onc in May and plan to ask again about it.
Bev xxx
Hello Bigbear, I’m a bit older than you but I’m also metaplastic triple negative. Thanks Sandra for bumping. I’ve just found out I don’t have the BRCA gene but they said there could be other genetic faults they don’t test for. My mum had breast cancer at 29 but we don’t know what type it was as it was quite a while ago. Xx
I,m now 43 and was diagnosed with MBC last November.
To both you and Bev - there is a metaplastic site on facebook. The site now has about 140 members from all over the world. As you will already be aware MBC is extremely rare, so this site gives fantastic access to other sufferers at all stages and ages. Feel free to join us.
I have got a few medical journals, but they are more related to spindle cell MBC as this is what i have. If you would like me to pass them on to you - feel free to pm me. I am away now for just over a week, but i will pass anything on, on my return.
I have just been diagnosed on Monday (13th) with this type of cancer. Very scared knowing it is so rare. I am having a mastectomy next Thursday (23rd) and keen to get it removed as soon as possible.
Feel comforted to know there are others out there fighting this cancer.
Welcome to the forums. I’m sorry to hear of your diagnosis, the first few weeks are always difficult when coming to terms with your diagnosis and treatment.
As well as the support you will receive on the forums you might find it helpful to order the BCC resources pack. It has been specifically designed for those newly diagnosed and contains information to help you understand your diagnosis, test results and the various treatments available. If you would like to order a copy just follow the link bellow:-
You may also like to talk things through with one of the helpline staff, they are there to offer emotional support as well as provide information. The free phone number is 0808 800 6000 and lines are open 9-5 Monday to Friday and 9-2 Saturday.
I have been diagnosed with the same cancer today…my head is still reeling! i am down for a masectomy on the 23rd them chemo and rads…no drugs…it wont work on me…
There is a group in Facebook for ladies like us with this type of cancer and I’m sure that if you join you will find lots of supportive advice on there. All the best to you both with your treatment plan. Xx
I find the FB site quite a scary place when you are only just new to the whole idea of cancer never mind a rare one! The ladies are lovely over there and i am glad i joined!
I am 64 nearly 65…and i have the same as BigBear in size of tumour…one lump is a 2/3 th other a 3…and i was told that drugs will not work on me. estrogeon?
I need more advice please…after a catalogue of errors and being told cancer free in November…it has grown rapidly in a few weeks…but i have decided to NOT have surgery at all…i hear this will not be good in the longer term…
I REALLY feel for you young ladies …its a real bummer isn’t it?