Stage 0 breast cancer manifests in two basic forms and is often referred to as "carcinoma in situ." The first condition, known as DCIS, is characterized by the presence of abnormal cells isolated within the lining of the breast duct. The second is a condition known as LCIS, wherein there are abnormal cells within the breast lobules. Though both forms of stage 0 breast cancer aren't as invasive as other forms of cancer, treatment is still a key measure in the prevention of this disease as cancerous cells can metastasize into nearby tissue.
Surgery
Of all the treatment options available for zero stage breast cancer, a surgical procedure is probably one of the more common. And depending on the severity of your condition, you may need either a procedure known as "breast-conserving" surgery or a total mastectomy. With a breast-conserving surgery, only a portion of the breast is removed, such as a lump, a quadrant of the breast or the tumor and surrounding tissue. With a total mastectomy, the entire breast is removed. Talk to your doctor about which procedure is right for you.
Radiation Therapy
Often following breast cancer surgery, you'll go through a course of radiation therapy. This form of treatment targets pulses of energy, such as gamma rays or X-rays, onto any remaining abnormal cells left after surgery. As the energy penetrates abnormal tissue, the actual structure of the cell is damaged, which stops the rapid division and causes the dangerous cells to die. While the most common form of radiation therapy is external beam, you may instead have internal radiation therapy, where a device is inserted near the abnormal cells to damage their structure. And much like surgery, the type of radiation therapy is often based on the severity of your disease.
Tamoxifen
For some people, a medication known as tamoxifen is used in conjunction with surgery and radiation therapy. Tamoxifen is a prescription drug that actually stops estrogen from affecting the breast, which can prevent cancer from developing within the tissue. Though it can be used for either sex, it seems to be far more beneficial in women suffering from zero stage ductal breast cancer.
Clinical Trials
If surgery, radiation and tamoxifen fail to produce positive results, your next option is usually some sort of clinical trial. Even in stage 0 breast cancer, this form of treatment can be beneficial. However, it usually entails a different combination or sequence of those treatment options already described. In some situations, you may be eligible for another form of clinical trial, so talk to your doctor about those trials available in or around your area.
Tags: breast cancer, abnormal cells, radiation therapy, stage breast cancer, breast removed
