Follow up tests whilst on Letrozole

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What tests should i be having whilst on Letrozole. Had grade 2 Her2+ and ER+ with mastectomy and chemo. Am 20 months into 5 years of letrozole. Had one mammogram but no other checks. Am concerned about bone density. Had one deca scan at start and base levels normal. Notes say I shoukd have another scan after 5 years. Am concerned as i do have joint pains. Should I be having other tests too?  

  • Hi , I’m on Anastrozole which is similar to letrozole. After my initial dexa scan (which showed mild osteopenia) I had a follow up scan after 2 years. Apparently there’s no point in checking bone density more frequently than this as changes happen slowly. 5 years sounds too long though. It was my GP who arranged the second one, maybe because of the osteopenia. 
    Re other tests…. I have none, apart from annual mammograms.  I’m 3 and a half years in and I actually have in mind to ask my GP for blood tests to check cholesterol and liver function as I’m sure I read on an American Anastrozole site that these should be monitored. It does rather seem as if we just keep popping the pills with little (or no) monitoring. 
    Hope it’s reassuring to know that you’re not the only one not having more tests! I get joint pains too, particularly in my feet, but unfortunately that seems a very common side effect of the armomatase inhibitors. It doesn’t stop me from walking lots but I do feel like a crocky old lady in the morning. My feet often ache at the beginning of a walk but I think exercise helps, also with the fatigue. 
    Will be interesting to see what others say re tests. Love and hugs, HFxx 

    HappyFeet1 xx
    Don’t be afraid to cry. It will free your mind of sorrowful thoughts. – Hopi