ANSWER
Given her familial risk and breast cancer diagnosis, Mrs. Williams has a number of therapy options.
Surgery: This may entail a mastectomy (removal of the entire breast) or a lumpectomy (removal of the tumor and surrounding tissue). If the cancer is localized, the benefit is that it may offer a cure. Potential scarring and the psychological effects of losing a breast are drawbacks.
After surgery, radiation therapy can be utilized to kill any cancer cells that may still be present. Although it’s non-invasive, it could make you tired or irritate your skin.
Chemotherapy is a type of systemic medicine used to eradicate cancer cells throughout the body. Its ability to target cancer cells that may have spread is one of its benefits, but it can also have negative effects like nausea, hair loss, and fatigue.
Hormone Therapy: If the cancer has hormone receptors, hormone therapy can stop the release of hormones that promote the progression of the disease. It normally has modest side effects and is well tolerated.
Targeted therapy aims at particular chemicals that contribute to the development of cancer. It may have fewer negative effects than chemotherapy and is beneficial for some forms of breast cancer.
The benefits and drawbacks of these treatments depend on the specific circumstances of each patient. Surgery and radiation may give a cure but may also have negative physical and psychological effects. Chemotherapy offers a wider range but has drawbacks. Although they may not be appropriate for all forms of breast cancer, hormone and targeted treatments are typically well tolerated.
Refusing Treatment: It’s important to respect Mrs. Williams’ autonomy if she chooses to decline medical care. However, it’s crucial to talk about the potential negative effects, like cancer growth, diminished chances of cure, and deteriorating general health.
Fertility Preservation: It makes sense that Mrs. Williams would want to have kids. Before beginning therapy, she should learn about fertility preservation alternatives including egg freezing and embryo banking as some treatments may affect fertility. She is now in a position to plan her future family in an informed manner.
In order to customize her treatment plan to her particular circumstances and preferences while putting her health and future goals first, Mrs. Williams must have honest and compassionate conversations with her healthcare team.
QUESTION
Mrs. Williams is a 27-year-old female diagnosed with breast cancer. She is currently in pharmacy school. She does not have children, but hopes to have them someday. She has been tested and has a genetic predisposition for this disease.
- What treatment options does she have?
- What are the advantages and disadvantages of those treatment options?
- What would you tell Mrs. Williams if she decided to refuse treatment?
- Mrs. Williams really wants to have children before she starts treatment. What would you educate her about? Why? Remember that your posts must exhibit appropriate writing mechanics including using proper language, cordiality, and proper grammar and punctuation. If you refer to any outside sources or reference materials, be sure to provide proper attribution and/or citation.
Initial post requirement must be 250 words minimum. The 2 peer responses must be 150 words minimum each.
