I was diagnosed with breast cancer aged 46, in June last year. Left breast 15mm IDC II, ER 7 PR 8 HER 2 Negative, 1/14 lymph nodes involved. I have since had a lumpectomy, axillary node clearance, 8 chemo sessions (4 x Epirubicin and Cyclophosphamide and 4 x Dofetaxel), the last of which was two weeks ago. I am also about to start 10 radiotherapy sessions in 20 days time.
I had an appointment today to discuss hormone therapy. The Consultant advised me that given that only one lymph node was involved Tamoxifen was the best option for me and proceeded how the side effects were milder than the other option of stronger drugs (Lezotrozole + Zoladex). That was until he mentioned that Tamoxifen would thicken the lining of my womb and I mentioned I suffered from Uterine Fibroids (my last scan pre-covid - 2-3 years ago) showed the sized of my fibroids meant I had a uterus of a 16 week pregnant lady. As soon as I said about my fibroids, he said in that case I had to take Lezotrozole in combination with Zoladex as the thickening of the linikng of the womb would only make my uterus bigger. He also said that I would need a bone scan (which I know is high in radiation) to use as a baseline and would need tgis scan repeated every three years. I mentioned that I was due to see a Gynaecologist and that they have previously spoken about doing a hysterectomy. He said if and when this happens, I could drop the Zoladex. Going by what he said I am guessing I could then have the Tamoxifen instead, given that I would no longer have a uterus and hence there will not be a chance of its lining thickening.
He clearly sold Tamoxifen to me and I am worried about Letozole and Zoladex. He gave me some literature and tols me to think about it. What is the best option if the choice is mine? From what I understood, as long as the ovaries remain, even if I have my uterus removed, I could have Tamoxifen. Which one should I start on in the meantime, while my Gynaecologist appointment comes through? Please help, I want to do what is best for my health in the long run, given my diagnosis and treatment so far. Additional information: I am now 47 and not yet menopausal.
Any help or advice will be highly appreciated.
