Breast Cancer-Clinical Case Scenario 2 Breast Cancer

Clinical Case Scenario 2 Breast Cancer

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This document outlines a clinical case scenario involving a 45-year-old female patient diagnosed with breast cancer, specifically invasive ductal carcinoma in the left medial breast. The mass was discovered a year ago, measures approximately 2.5 cm in diameter, and presents with suspicious axillary node involvement. There are skin changes suggestive of possible inflammatory disease, necessitating further evaluation via a punch biopsy. <br /><br />The oncology team recommends a mastectomy with potential adjuvant therapies, and the patient is considering breast reconstruction. Key considerations for reconstruction include:<br /><br />1. <strong>Timing of Reconstruction</strong>: The extent of skin involvement and possible skin-sparing complications must be evaluated. With locally advanced disease and potential lymph node involvement, the choice of reconstructive techniques may need to accommodate non-skin-sparing scenarios. This makes using a tissue expander or autologous reconstruction more favorable options.<br /><br />2. <strong>Impact of Adjuvant Therapies</strong>: The likelihood of requiring adjuvant radiation therapy increases due to the tumor size, skin involvement, and potential lymph node positivity. In such cases, delaying autologous reconstruction until after radiation therapy should be carefully considered.<br /><br />3. <strong>Impact of Inflammatory Disease</strong>: If inflammatory disease is confirmed, reconstruction may need to be postponed. Some surgeons recommend waiting up to a year before reconstruction in these cases to reduce potential complications. Cooperation with the patient’s oncology team is crucial for timely and coordinated care planning.<br /><br />Overall, the document emphasizes the importance of considering tumor characteristics, treatment plans, and potential inflammatory conditions in surgical planning to optimize reconstructive outcomes.

Keywords

breast cancer

invasive ductal carcinoma

mastectomy

breast reconstruction

adjuvant therapies

tissue expander

autologous reconstruction

axillary node involvement

inflammatory disease

radiation therapy