Invasive Lobular Carcinoma: Gretchen's Survivor Story

What happened, in summary

Because a germline CDH1 mutation also increased her risk of lobular breast cancer, Gretchen Borzi alternated mammograms and breast MRI every 6 months. In March 2014, MRI identified a small abnormal area that was confirmed by biopsy as invasive lobular carcinoma. The cancer was found very early.

Gretchen chose bilateral mastectomy with reconstruction on April 30, 2014. A sentinel lymph node checked during surgery was clear, with no evidence that the cancer had spread beyond the breast. Immediate implants were placed during the same operation. She stayed in hospital for 2 nights.

Recovery included substantial pain, swelling, limited arm movement, and emotional adjustment to the loss of her breasts. Mobility improved gradually over 6 weeks, although some numbness and tightness were expected to remain.

Final pathology showed that the invasive focus was less than 0.75 mm and had already been removed during biopsy. Lobular carcinoma in situ remained in several areas of both breasts, but no additional invasive cancer or nodal spread was found. Chemotherapy and radiation were not needed. Gretchen described herself as a 2-time cancer survivor and continued supporting hereditary gastric- and breast-cancer awareness.