Stage 3 Breast Cancer

[catfreddie]

I discovered a lump in my breast, had an MRI, biopsy, several scans and was diagnosed with stage

3C breast cancer. Started Anastrazole and Ibrance. After 2 weeks was taken off the Ibrance because wbc dropped too low. After 2 weeks off my wbc was still too low so am hoping to start a lower dose of the Ibrance on Thursday when I see my onc. I am concerned that the delays will affect my outcome. Anyone else have this happen? Thank you!

[Denzie]

can you talk to your doctor about adding Neupogen or Neulasta to your treatment regime? They promote WBC growth.

Meanwhile the Anastrozole is still suppressing some of the estrogen and progesterone that feed the cancer.

[catfreddie in reply to Denzie]

Yes, I am going to mention that when I see her on Thursday! Thanks.

[dyevooshka]

I had a lumpectomy and radiation before starting Anastrozole at 64 years. My blood tests and and mammograms have been normal and clear. I had 3 months of brain fog, and after a year still have major morning stiffnesss in back and hips, but walking and swimming clear those up. I do heat up more quickly, like hot flashes, have extreme vaginal dryness and still need an afternoon nap. My temper might be slightly quicker to flare. I have no major complaints, though and plan to stick it out for the recommended 5 years. We are all different. I hope you find the right balance. 💕

[CalGal56]

Hi catfreddie ,

I had a similar experience. I am on Ibrance with Letrozole. After one month my absolute neutrophils dropped to 1000. We had me take a break for one week. They came up slightly but tanked again. My oncologist moved me to 75 and changed the method of dowsing to 5 days on 2 days off 5 days on and so on. That worked for some time (about 7 months). They dropped again to 700 just before leaving for a trip abroad and she took me off for the duration of my trip (27 days). They went back up to the good old days of 3200. I am back on now and so far so good. I will have my blood drawn on the 19th amd see her in about 2 weeks to check in. It is my understanding this happens to some of us. So hang in there. I can tell you it is so important for all of us to stay on top of our care and advocate strongly for our wellbeing making sure our medical team knows we are advocating for ourselves. I will touch base after my next visit.