Diagnosis and Treatment
Many treatment methods are used for breast cancer. Treatment depends on the size and location of the tumor in the breast, the results of lab tests (including hormone receptor tests), and the stage (or extent) of the disease. The doctor may order x-rays and blood tests. The doctor may also do special exams of the liver, lungs, or bones, because breast cancer may spread to these areas. To develop a treatment plan to fit each patient's needs, the doctor also considers the woman's age and general health as well as her feelings about the treatment options. A combination of surgery, chemotherapy and radiation is often used.


Women with breast cancer are likely to have many questions and concerns about their treatment options. They want to learn all they can about their disease and their treatment choices so that they can take an active part in decisions about their medical care.


The doctor is the best person to answer questions about treatment for a particular patient: what her treatment choices are, how successful the treatment is expected to be, and how much it is likely to cost. Most patients also want to know how they will look after treatment and whether they will have to change their normal activities. Also, the patient may want to talk with her doctor about taking part in a study of new treatment methods.

Last updated: 30-Aug-07