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OncoLink FAQ: Treatment options for ductal carcinoma insitu of the breast and radiation therapy side effects Last Revision Date: Sunday, 14-Feb-1999 13:54:28 EST Copyright © 1994-1999, The Trustees of the University of Pennsylvania The following is a two fold question from an OncoLink reader about treatment options for ductal carcinoma insitu of the breast and radiation therapy side effects. QUESTION: Two weeks ago a biopsy found an ductal carcinoma, about one and a half centimeters in my right breast. The biopsy margins were clean. I am deciding between mastectomy and radiation. I am still worried about the long-term effects of radiation. What can you tell me about this. What is the cumulative effect of radiation? If I have radiation now, might it limit my ability to have more in the future at a time when I might not have a choice? One point: I understand for most women the thought of losing a breast is devastating. For me it isn't; that point is really not a factor. I want to make the choice that will give me the best chance of living a long and healthy life, and whether I live it with one breast or two makes absolutely no difference Maggie Hampshire RN, BSN, OCN, Managing Editor of OncoLink replies: Thank you for your question. In order to help you understand your disease the following documents will give you a basic overview of treatment options for Ductal Carcinoma In Situ of the Breast: Ductal Carcinoma In Situ of the Breast: Guide for Patients The NCI/PDQ Statement on the Fifteen-year results of breast-conserving surgery and definitive breast irradiation for the treatment of ductal carcinoma in situ of the breast If you decide to opt for radiation treatments the following documents will give you a wealth of information about side effects of treatment: Patient Hints for Radiation Therapy BCA Frequently asked Questions

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