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OnkoVodič – Rak Dojke Srbija
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Step 3

Monitoring therapy effects (every 2–4 months)

Monitoring treatment effects – CT, laboratory tests, symptom assessment
During treatment for advanced breast cancer, progression or control of the disease is assessed regularly – usually every 2–4 months. This includes a discussion of your symptoms, and (usually a ). Based on the findings, the decides whether the treatment continues, is adjusted or is changed.
Frequency of check-ups

Usually every 2–4 months. The interval depends on the type of treatment, the location of the and your general condition.

Laboratory analyses and tumor markers

, + (, ). Markers are supportive – they are measured continuously, but decisions are not based on them alone.

Imaging

Usually a of the chest/abdomen/pelvis. If needed, of the brain, spine or abdomen, a or . The goal is to compare with the previous scan to assess whether the tumor is responding to treatment ().

Assessment of symptoms and quality of life

A discussion about pain, fatigue, appetite, breathing, neurological symptoms and treatment . Your symptoms are important for assessing possible side effects of the treatment and whether a symptom is a side effect or a sign of disease .

How are results interpreted?
The doctor compares with previous findings (e.g., according to criteria): (improvement), or (worsening).
What follows after assessment?

If the disease is under control and therapy is well tolerated – it continues. If it progresses or side effects are severe – therapy is changed.

Why CT most often?

A provides a good ‘map’ of the organs, and changes can be precisely compared with previous scans. , a or are added as needed, as the doctor considers necessary.

Can markers "fluctuate"?

They can. That's why trends over time are observed and always together with scans and symptoms – decisions are not made based on markers alone.

What should I bring to the check-up?

Previous reports and images if you have them, a list of treatments and since the last check-up, and notes on your symptoms (when they started, how they are changing).

When to contact earlier, outside the scheduled appointment?

  • Sudden worsening of pain or new limitation of movement.
  • Difficulty breathing, chest pain, or neurological symptoms.
  • Severe, new, or unusual therapy side effect.

What does "comparing scans" look like?

The and compare the size and number of changes with the previous examination (e.g., according to criteria). They look at whether the lesions have shrunk, stayed the same or grown, and whether new ones have appeared.

Decision to continue therapy

If scans and symptoms show improvement () or a stable condition and the treatment is well tolerated – it continues. Regular monitoring also helps assess how well the treatment is tolerated. If there is or intolerable , the doctor proposes a change of treatment.

Your role at the check-up

  • Tell the doctor honestly which you have and how much they bother you.
  • Keep brief notes on your symptoms between check-ups – it helps to assess the trend.
  • Ask questions about the findings, the next steps and the imaging plan.