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Post by alyeska on Nov 29, 2017 5:10:06 GMT
Does anyone have any idea if there is any connection between Lyme and breast cancer? I may need to have a biopsy, and I asked if they could culture it to see if Lyme was present. The nurse seemed to know absolutely nothing about Lyme, of course. Any thoughts?
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Post by girlie on Nov 29, 2017 7:39:29 GMT
I don't know if they would culture from the biopsy. Most likely not...since most Doctors (unless Lyme literate) are clueless when it comes to lyme disease.
I am way overdue for my mammogram...(two years)
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Post by Little Bear (LB) on Nov 29, 2017 9:34:58 GMT
Does anyone have any idea if there is any connection between Lyme and breast cancer? I may need to have a biopsy, and I asked if they could culture it to see if Lyme was present. The nurse seemed to know absolutely nothing about Lyme, of course. Any thoughts? Hi alyeska!-
I personally don't know if there is any connection between Lyme and breast cancer. I do know that Lyme and co infections can lower/weaken your immune system.
I have read that Bartonella can cause bumps under the skin.
Here is a discussion from LymeNet. It is an older thread, but you might find some things helpful. The discussion is about: Breast tumor/mass and Bartonella- can appear to be cancer.
flash.lymenet.org/ubb/ultimatebb.php/topic/1/74843
Also, Lyme and Bartonella can affect lymph nodes. We have lymph nodes throughout our bodies. Some of the lymph nodes are located around the breast.
Some doctors might due a fine needle aspiration biopsy of the breast. A small amount of tissue or fluid is taken from the suspicious area using a needle attached to a syringe. The sample is then checked for cancer cells. I'm pretty sure that they would never check this sample for Lyme and co infections even if you personally ask. They are only looking for if the sample is benign or malignant for cancer.
Even if they would test the biopsy for Lyme, the testing they use is cr*ppy and unreliable.
Even though Lyme and co infections can cause swollen lymph nodes and bumps under the skin, Please don't ignore getting a biopsy if needed. I have lost loved ones in my life due to cancer.
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Post by Admin/ Traveler on Nov 29, 2017 18:43:37 GMT
Cancer and these infections is a very hard conversation to have - just how much information does any one individual really want? For me, with a family history of all kinds of cancers, plus all the viral infections that can significantly increase our changes of having cancer, on top of these bacterial infections increasing our chances of cancer - well I want to know it all. I'd rather know the possibilities so I can watch for it and attack it early than to wait around and 'discover' later on that I have it and need to take action right away. While it can never be proven that cancer is in a Lyme patients future, the possibilities get higher and higher with as the number of bacterial and viral infections add up and the length of time the person has had them, especially untreated. Quite honestly, between my family history and going 40 years untreated, I figure at least one type of cancer is in my future. But, I've dealt with that possibility and am doing what I can to stay conscientious of my diet and over all health. Like LB, I would encourage you to have at least the needle biopsy if you need it. Ignoring the situation will only put you at a bigger disadvantage if you wait. Please do let us know when your appt is, and how things go though!! We are very much here to help support you through all of this!!!
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kb69
Junior Member
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Post by kb69 on Nov 29, 2017 20:34:50 GMT
Hi Alyeska. I'm glad you're moving ahead with a biopsy. There is always a very good chance that a lump can be benign and the biopsy will tell you that.
I am a breast cancer survivor. I was diagnosed 6 years ago at 41 year old, with absolutely no family history of any cancers. My lump did not appear on a mammogram, but it was palpable and the biopsy confirmed the cancer.
The good news for me -- I caught it early, had the most common form, and addressed it with a lumpectomy and radiation. I did not need to have chemotherapy. I am now beyond 5 years out and generally considered "cleared," but I am ever vigilant. So -- please examine yourselves, ladies! And, Girlie, please get that mammogram!
Regarding Lyme and cancer, I actually asked my oncologist as Massachusetts General Hospital, one of the top cancer hospitals in the world, whether there was any relation between Lyme and cancer. He did not say directly, but spoke to the issues Traveler mentioned about duress on the body's immune system, increased inflammation and, quite simply, the stress of chronic illness all playing a role in cancer development. [Though MGH is also home to Dr. S., and we all know how he has affected the approach to adequately addressing Lyme/Co's.]
My Lyme symptoms appeared 18 months ago after being bit by tic, and having the EM rash. So, I just want to assure you that my cancer was not related to Lyme in any way as it was many years prior.
Please let us know how everything turns out. It's tough waiting for answers, but keep in mind that most of the time these are cysts or other benign forms. You will be okay. I'll be thinking of you.
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kb69
Junior Member
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Post by kb69 on Nov 29, 2017 20:46:38 GMT
Sorry Alyeska -- Lyme brain -- I just realized that you said you "might" need a biopsy. Just reassuring you that it's a simple procedure and not to shy away from it if it's recommended.
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Post by alyeska on Nov 29, 2017 23:23:38 GMT
Sorry Alyeska -- Lyme brain -- I just realized that you said you "might" need a biopsy. Just reassuring you that it's a simple procedure and not to shy away from it if it's recommended. Soooo... this is the situation. I've constantly had to go back after mammograms for ultrasounds and have never had anything wrong. This has literally happened every year for the last decade, and they always say, "It's just a cyst." Suddenly they want to do a biopsy, but I got more information today. Because the "-caine" medicines don't work on me, I'd be having this procedure without any pain meds. I can't stomach the idea. The radiologist had an np from the breast center call me today and said that I can just come back in sixth months for another ultrasound, but that it's up to me. My mother did have breast cancer, but it was post-menopausal and treatable. I'm not in menopause yet. They don't seem too worried. I just thought that Lyme might possibly be getting in the cyst and making it look different or something. I think I need to just have the ultrasound because the idea of no pain meds makes me want to vomit. I've had so much trouble with things like dental work all of my life because no one believed me that I could feel everything that was going on. It was a nightmare getting my teeth filled, especially as a child! I didn't find out until I had my first baby that the -caine meds didn't work in me. The anesthesiologist who gave me the epidural was the one who figured it out. This isn't an unknown thing, but the stupid breast center can't manage to figure out what to give me for the procedure. Even my dentist now calls in scripts for me if I need to have dental work done, so you'd think a DOCTOR could figure it out. (Sigh.) It's always something, isn't it?
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Post by alyeska on Nov 29, 2017 23:36:21 GMT
Does anyone have any idea if there is any connection between Lyme and breast cancer? I may need to have a biopsy, and I asked if they could culture it to see if Lyme was present. The nurse seemed to know absolutely nothing about Lyme, of course. Any thoughts? Hi alyeska!-
I personally don't know if there is any connection between Lyme and breast cancer. I do know that Lyme and co infections can lower/weaken your immune system.
I have read that Bartonella can cause bumps under the skin.
Here is a discussion from LymeNet. It is an older thread, but you might find some things helpful. The discussion is about: Breast tumor/mass and Bartonella- can appear to be cancer.
flash.lymenet.org/ubb/ultimatebb.php/topic/1/74843
Also, Lyme and Bartonella can affect lymph nodes. We have lymph nodes throughout our bodies. Some of the lymph nodes are located around the breast.
Some doctors might due a fine needle aspiration biopsy of the breast. A small amount of tissue or fluid is taken from the suspicious area using a needle attached to a syringe. The sample is then checked for cancer cells. I'm pretty sure that they would never check this sample for Lyme and co infections even if you personally ask. They are only looking for if the sample is benign or malignant for cancer.
Even if they would test the biopsy for Lyme, the testing they use is cr*ppy and unreliable.
Even though Lyme and co infections can cause swollen lymph nodes and bumps under the skin, Please don't ignore getting a biopsy if needed. I have lost loved ones in my life due to cancer.
Well, that thread sure was interesting! It definitely sounds like this could be linked to Lyme. I'm sure that I've had Lyme for at least as long as this cyst, and that's what those other people were describing too. Thanks so much for the info! I may actually print out the thread and take it over to the radiologist, though if she'll actually read it I have no idea. Specialists are going to really need to start looking at Lyme for so many things as more and more people get this disease. Why is it that WE know more about this than doctors? I find this entire situation so ridiculous. ...And now the thing with Gary Wormser. I refuse to put Dr. In front of that man's name. Even I know that he had to take the Hyppocratic oath to become a doctor! Grrrr...
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kb69
Junior Member
Posts: 72
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Post by kb69 on Nov 29, 2017 23:43:34 GMT
Sorry Alyeska -- Lyme brain -- I just realized that you said you "might" need a biopsy. Just reassuring you that it's a simple procedure and not to shy away from it if it's recommended. Soooo... this is the situation. I've constantly had to go back after mammograms for ultrasounds and have never had anything wrong. This has literally happened every year for the last decade, and they always say, "It's just a cyst." Suddenly they want to do a biopsy, but I got more information today. Because the "-caine" medicines don't work on me, I'd be having this procedure without any pain meds. I can't stomach the idea. The radiologist had an np from the breast center call me today and said that I can just come back in sixth months for another ultrasound, but that it's up to me. My mother did have breast cancer, but it was post-menopausal and treatable. I'm not in menopause yet. They don't seem too worried. I just thought that Lyme might possibly be getting in the cyst and making it look different or something. I think I need to just have the ultrasound because the idea of no pain meds makes me want to vomit. I've had so much trouble with things like dental work all of my life because no one believed me that I could feel everything that was going on. It was a nightmare getting my teeth filled, especially as a child! I didn't find out until I had my first baby that the -caine meds didn't work in me. The anesthesiologist who gave me the epidural was the one who figured it out. This isn't an unknown thing, but the stupid breast center can't manage to figure out what to give me for the procedure. Even my dentist now calls in scripts for me if I need to have dental work done, so you'd think a DOCTOR could figure it out. (Sigh.) It's always something, isn't it?
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kb69
Junior Member
Posts: 72
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Post by kb69 on Nov 29, 2017 23:51:11 GMT
That's good news that they aren't worried about it. If it helps at all, I saw my oncologist earlier this year as I was experiencing weeks of increased soreness/lumpiness and was concerned, given my history, that something was up. I was checked, and there was nothing wrong. This continued for several months, and now no longer happens.
I don't think we can ever underestimate Lyme/Co's ability to impact every part of our bodies. And, we women, suffer the added challenge of having it wreak havoc on our hormones, too. It's affected my cycle, which I now get more frequently than I need at this point in my life.
Hang in there. I'm glad things are looking good. And, sorry about your issues with the "caines." Ugh. I cannot imagine what a visit to the dentist was like when you were a kid.
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Post by alyeska on Nov 29, 2017 23:57:20 GMT
That's good news that they aren't worried about it. If it helps at all, I saw my oncologist earlier this year as I was experiencing weeks of increased soreness/lumpiness and was concerned, given my history, that something was up. I was checked, and there was nothing wrong. This continued for several months, and now no longer happens. I don't think we can ever underestimate Lyme/Co's ability to impact every part of our bodies. And, we women, suffer the added challenge of having it wreak havoc on our hormones, too. It's affected my cycle, which I now get more frequently than I need at this point in my life. Hang in there. I'm glad things are looking good. And, sorry about your issues with the "caines." Ugh. I cannot imagine what a visit to the dentist was like when you were a kid. Same problem with the cycle here too. Ugh. Men have no idea how easy they have it sometimes! Well, at least I got to have babies which was probably the coolest thing my body has ever done. I have to admit I wouldn't trade that for the world.
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Post by alyeska on Nov 30, 2017 0:02:57 GMT
I don't know if they would culture from the biopsy. Most likely not...since most Doctors (unless Lyme literate) are clueless when it comes to lyme disease. I am way overdue for my mammogram...(two years) Call your doc for a mammogram please, Girlie! I know that I don't know you in person, but I love you as a virtual friend! With our special needs, we have to be checking every box I think. I've actually got a doc appt scheduled for the slight chest pain I've been having just in case something is up. I've heard of too many Lyme patients having heart trouble, so I'm getting in there ASAP. (Of course ASAP is mid December because I'm a new patient with this doctor, but still! Lol!)
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Post by Admin/ Traveler on Nov 30, 2017 0:57:20 GMT
Don't get me started on how these infections mess with ALL of our hormones, not just the estrogen levels. But, my estrogen levels have always been a little off (looking back at symptoms) and my cycle was always funky. I was all of 50 years old when I was told I had zero estrogen - boy, was I shocked!! LOL! But, as Alyeska said, at least I was able to have 2 kids!!! It literally nearly killed me, but I did it and wouldn't undo that for anything! They are the light of my life. (Yes, I'm one proud Mama!!) Why can't you suggest one of the pain meds you KNOW works for you??? My hubby can't have any opiates (we discovered this with his last 2 surgeries), and yet when I questioned the doctor about what was a possible 3rd surgery, he simply told me that they have other drugs they can use to help him get through post op pain. No reason for you to suffer through your pain!! It sounds like you already know at least a few pain meds that will work for you, insist that those be used when you do choose to have the biopsy done. For me, I just have a high tolerance to pain meds - and to pain. So, by the time I'm usually willing to take pain meds, the pain is so far 'ahead' of the meds, it takes higher doses to play catch up for the meds. I do check myself, but I don't have mammograms regularly. I do have concerns about the radiation that I'm being exposed to (particularly my thyroid), but more than that, I have no insurance to help cover the cost.
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Post by acres on Nov 30, 2017 11:55:08 GMT
I have pancreatic cysts (branch ipmn) checked annually with an mri and then endoscopic ultrasound with fna to take a sample and send it to the lab....I think keeping on top of cysts or lumps and getting lab results (just in case) is sound advice... Going through the annual check now for 9 years and the results have always been "indolent" with no cancer cells etc...
The tests give me peace of mind, but I am also mentally prepared if treatment is necessary and having the testing done annually gives me a very good chance of catching the cyst if it decides to turn at a very early stage...which is the key for a positive outcome....
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Post by girlie on Dec 2, 2017 9:01:47 GMT
I don't know if they would culture from the biopsy. Most likely not...since most Doctors (unless Lyme literate) are clueless when it comes to lyme disease. I am way overdue for my mammogram...(two years) Call your doc for a mammogram please, Girlie! I know that I don't know you in person, but I love you as a virtual friend! With our special needs, we have to be checking every box I think. I've actually got a doc appt scheduled for the slight chest pain I've been having just in case something is up. I've heard of too many Lyme patients having heart trouble, so I'm getting in there ASAP. (Of course ASAP is mid December because I'm a new patient with this doctor, but still! Lol!) Aw, you're sweet, alyeska! I don't think I can do it right now. The 'girls' are really sensitive right now...so can't subject them to the squeezing between the plates...plus I'm not ready to subject them to the radiation. I may get an mri instead. I know there are some pros and cons of an mri vs a mammogram...the mri can miss some spots that the mammogram would pick up. BUT, no radiation...and painless.
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Post by Admin/ Traveler on Dec 2, 2017 20:08:22 GMT
(My apologies to the guys ahead of this post!)
We have this lovely family trait of women gaining a cup size in our 40's or 50's - so mine have been rather 'touchy' since that time. Maybe I'm just not used to actually having something there (LOL - I was barely an A cup before!!!) - but it's more about money right now for me. I know there are things like the County health unit that will help me get a mammo when I'm ready though. Right now, I make sure I do at least one self exam each month - and pay close attention.
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Post by alyeska on Dec 10, 2017 17:53:29 GMT
(My apologies to the guys ahead of this post!) We have this lovely family trait of women gaining a cup size in our 40's or 50's - so mine have been rather 'touchy' since that time. Maybe I'm just not used to actually having something there (LOL - I was barely an A cup before!!!) - but it's more about money right now for me. I know there are things like the County health unit that will help me get a mammo when I'm ready though. Right now, I make sure I do at least one self exam each month - and pay close attention. Some churches will have a mobile mammogram unit come to give free ones too. Ours does. We have an entirely free clinic with doctors and dentists who volunteer their time, and we have a food pantry and furniture ministry. My husband and kids actually volunteer with the furniture ministry and get to pick up and deliver donated furniture. They love getting to deliver it to families, especially if there are kids. The kids get so excited! I wish I were well enough to help out and go too, but since my joints don't work at the moment, I'm out. Apparently we have a family trait of density in our breasts which makes regular mammograms EXTREMELY painful. Ultrasounds are so much better, and that's what they'll do in my follow up appointment in six months.
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Post by alyeska on Dec 10, 2017 18:02:38 GMT
Call your doc for a mammogram please, Girlie! I know that I don't know you in person, but I love you as a virtual friend! With our special needs, we have to be checking every box I think. I've actually got a doc appt scheduled for the slight chest pain I've been having just in case something is up. I've heard of too many Lyme patients having heart trouble, so I'm getting in there ASAP. (Of course ASAP is mid December because I'm a new patient with this doctor, but still! Lol!) Aw, you're sweet, alyeska! I don't think I can do it right now. The 'girls' are really sensitive right now...so can't subject them to the squeezing between the plates...plus I'm not ready to subject them to the radiation. I may get an mri instead. I know there are some pros and cons of an mri vs a mammogram...the mri can miss some spots that the mammogram would pick up. BUT, no radiation...and painless. I have the same problem with the pain during regular mammograms. Dense breast tissue apparently. Seriously, guys have it SO EASY! Ultrasounds are quite literally painless if you can get that done somewhere. They do that whenever I don't "pass" my mammograms. It's a relief to have that after the squeezing! I actually get more nervous about mammograms than I do the dentist, and I'm TERRIFIED of the dentist! It hurts so badly! I'd start googling "free mammograms" and see if there's a place that could do ultrasound near you. If I get cleared with the ultrasounds, then the next normal mammogram I'm supposed to ask for is a 3D one. It's still squeezy though. I also feel very blessed to have only women working in the office! I could never go to a guy obgyn or mammogram technician.
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Post by girlie on Dec 11, 2017 8:06:30 GMT
Aw, you're sweet, alyeska! I don't think I can do it right now. The 'girls' are really sensitive right now...so can't subject them to the squeezing between the plates...plus I'm not ready to subject them to the radiation. I may get an mri instead. I know there are some pros and cons of an mri vs a mammogram...the mri can miss some spots that the mammogram would pick up. BUT, no radiation...and painless. I have the same problem with the pain during regular mammograms. Dense breast tissue apparently. Seriously, guys have it SO EASY! Ultrasounds are quite literally painless if you can get that done somewhere. They do that whenever I don't "pass" my mammograms. It's a relief to have that after the squeezing! I actually get more nervous about mammograms than I do the dentist, and I'm TERRIFIED of the dentist! It hurts so badly! I'd start googling "free mammograms" and see if there's a place that could do ultrasound near you. If I get cleared with the ultrasounds, then the next normal mammogram I'm supposed to ask for is a 3D one. It's still squeezy though. I also feel very blessed to have only women working in the office! I could never go to a guy obgyn or mammogram technician. I also have the dense breast tissue -- or 'had'. Not sure anymore since I had the 'twins' downsized in 2014. I had asked about an ultrasound and was told that they only use that if they find something on the mammogram. They don't use it for screening...I think because they are only looking at specific areas with the ultrasound..(with that wand thingy) Where as the mammogram gives a picture of the entire area...
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Post by girlie on Dec 11, 2017 8:13:22 GMT
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