Brief Answer:
Considerations

Detailed Answer:
hello and thank you for submitting your question.

I'm sorry to hear about your recent cancer diagnosis, but very glad that your lymph nodes were clear and your surgery was successful. The medication you are taking to decrease Estrogen production is because the cancer cells are sensitive and receptive to small amounts of estrogen in the body which can result in their growth.

This was determined by testing the cells at the microscopic level to demonstrate that they have receptors for estrogen. Removing your ovaries would not necessarily replace the actions of the aromatase inhibitor Arimidex.

Since estrogen can be produced in other anatomic sites such as adipose or fat tissue. Also, it is very likely you have experienced menopause, so the ovaries are currently producing very little amounts of estrogen. This therapy is well proven to help prevent the recurrence of the cancer.

The side effects may also be managed with other therapies and regular check ups by your oncologist. In addition there are othe estrogen blocking medications including letrozole
or exemestane which are equivalent to Arimidex and could be used as a substitute to see if you tolerate it better

It would be very reasonable to address these questions and concerns with your oncologist and discuss your treatment plan.

In summary:

- Your breast cancer cells were tested and show that they are sensitive to the growth effects of estrogen
- Oopherectomy (removal of ovaries) is not currently the standard of care for decreasing estrogen in patients of your demographic
- Discussion of concerns and management of side effects of the aromatase inhibitor would be beneficial for your therapy and overall cancer remission.

I hope this was helpful.


Sincerely,
Dr Galamaga

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