Triple negative - increase in tumour after 1st phase of chemo

Hi Coco66, I noticed nobody had responded to you so I searched the site to see if anyone in the past had had a tumour grow after chemo and found a thread from about 6 years ago where this had happened to a few people.  The outcome isn't clear for all of them but for at least two of them it seems treatment did work in the end.  So try not to worry and it clearly does happen and you are not alone.

Here is a link to the thread

https://community.macmillan.org.uk/cancer_types/chat-breast-cancer/f/breast-cancer-forum/85573/tumour-is-bigger-despite-chemo/723168

Wishing you all the best xx

Hi Coco66, I am sorry yo hear this. I always thought chemo eill kill cancer cells. I am actually really scared. I am going to start chemo soon and reading this has given me the possibility that chemo may not work at all. I think, evrn if some drugs don't work well for someone, there must be other options. What did medical team tell you about this? I hope things work well. Xx

Hi Raf44, sorry you are feeling scared but please try not to be.  I don't know much about chemo but I do think you are right, if one type of chemo doesn't work they will try another until they find one that does.  

If you are worried please speak to your oncologist and Breast care nurse, I'm sure they will put your mind at ease. 

Wishing you all the best xx

Hello Godwilling, thank you appreciate you going to the trouble of finding an old thread for me.  I will be having a read, always good to hear the survivors story, gives me hope and encouragement.   Best wishes xx

Hello Raf44, I also thought that the chemo would at least shrink the tumour.  That is why the news after my first phase of chemo, came as such a shock.  Still I am trying to keep positive that the second phase will shrink the tumour, I am trying not to think the worse and cross the bridges when I get to them.  I know it is really difficult but remember everyone is different and you are just starting your journey so please try not to get discouraged in most cases chemo works and as you said there are many options.  I am taking day by day and trying to keep busy otherwise life will be a misery.  I am seeing my medical team end of next week for a follow up so will let you know how I am going.  Although I have 10 weeks left of chemo, they will do another MRI scan after the next two so my fingers are crossed.  Sending you  love and best wishes with your treatment xx