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How can we treat my mother-in-law's left breast tumor?

This Premium Q&A, reviewed and published, features a real conversation between an iCliniq user and a physician.

Patient's Query

Hi doctor,

A few months ago, my mother-in-law had a tumor in her left breast. There is no pain. It had started growing recently in the last four to six weeks, and we consulted oncologists. The results of various tests are out. I wanted to get a second opinion. I have attached reports for you to have a look at and send me your advice.

Kindly help.

Hi,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I have gone through the query. But before going ahead with treatment decisions, I need to know a few details:

  1. Any comorbidities like diabetes, hypertension, and renal problems?
  2. How is her general condition? Is she able to carry out her daily activities?
  3. What is her opinion?

She will fit into a category of locally advanced breast cancer. Her disease is localized. If her age is not considered, then the plan would be chemotherapy followed by surgery and radiation, depending on the type of surgery. She will also need a FISH (Fluorescence in situ hybridization) test to decide whether another targeted therapy like Trastuzumab is required or not. The type of surgery depends on whether she wants to preserve her breasts or not. As the tumor is large (attachment removed to protect patient identity), she will need chemotherapy to reduce the size and then surgery. But all this is done depending on the patient's general condition.

I hope this information helps you.

Feel free to reach out in case of further queries.

Thank you.

For more information consult a medical oncologist online

Patient's Query

Thank you, doctor,

There is no other problem like diabetes, hypertension, and renal problems. She is very active and handles all daily household tasks. She avoids surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation. She has not undergone FISH testing or received Trastuzumab. She is not willing to have chemotherapy. What are the effects of a mastectomy? Will it limit the movement of the left hand?

Kindly help.

Hi,

Welcome back to icliniq.com.

Mastectomy will include the complete removal of breast tissue along with axillary lymph node dissection. There is about a five percent chance that she might develop edema in that arm and have difficulty moving it. It is managed with limb elevation and symptomatic treatment. If her general condition is good, surgery is followed by adjuvant chemotherapy, and hormonal therapy is ideal.

I hope this information helps you.

Feel free to reach out in case of further queries.

Thank you.

Medically reviewed byiCliniq medical review team

Published At August 17, 2018
Reviewed AtOctober 17, 2025

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