TC vs. CMF

ss1979

Hi there, newly diagnosed IDC July 2026. Had lumpectomy. ER/PR+, HER2-, negative lymph nodes, stage 1A. Tx plan was radiation and tamoxifen. Derailed as my oncotype came back at 26. New tx plan with chemo, radiation and AI. Oncologist at Fred hutch is recommending either TC or CMF and said both are as efficacious. Not finding very many others given that option- everyone I have talked to has done TC. My biggest concern is neuropathy in my hands due to being a dental hygienist. CMF over 6 mos sounds daunting emotionally and physically and concerned about stamina. Ultimately, I would like to do whatever is best to prevent recurrence. Would love to hear any insight this group can give- appreciate I you all! 🩷

mandy23

Hi @ss1979 -

I wasn't given a choice, so I did TC. I didn't have any problems with neuropathy. However, it was recommended to chill hands and feet to avoid this during the infusion. Have they told you this? You can find these cold therapy gloves and socks if you search on Amazon for SuzziPad Cold Therapy. I'm sure there are other brands, etc. but these are what I used. It is kind of a pain as you can't do too much while sitting there with your hands in the gloves, but I figured better that than neropathy.

Good luck with your decision and procedures.

ss1979

Has anyone ever started with TC and switched to CMF due to side effects like neuropathy?

moderators

Hi @ss1979,

We're so sorry you are left with these decisions about treatment. Have you considered a second opinion to see if the recommended chemo options have other professionals backing it up? Has your oncologist explained potential risks/benefits of one regimen or another?

That being said, there ARE ways you can mitigate potential concerns with neuropathy from taxane chemotherapy, as mentioned from @mandy23, including cold and compression during infusion. You can read more here:

• https://www.breastcancer.org/treatment-side-effects/neuropathy/chemo-gloves-socks
• https://www.breastcancer.org/treatment-side-effects/neuropathy/compression-therapy
• Preventing Chemo-Induced Neuropathy
• https://www.breastcancer.org/news/topical-cream-neuropathy
• https://www.breastcancer.org/podcast/cooling-compression-for-neuropathy
• https://www.breastcancer.org/podcast/neuropathy-basics

Let us know what you decide for a treatment plan - we're here to support you along the way!

—The Mods

ss1979

This is very helpful, thank you! Yes, this was my second opinion. I weighed the options and decided the best fit for me is TC and we are going to watch my symptoms closely and adjust if needed. I feel in good hands at Fred hutch.

I appreciate the links you sent! I’m also interested in any info from experience on cold capping with paxman.

moderators

Hi Suzy, @ss1979, we're glad to hear that. We also wanted to share a few articles and community discussions about cold capping that you may find helpful:

https://www.breastcancer.org/podcast/paxman-scalp-cooling-patient-assistance

https://www.breastcancer.org/treatment-side-effects/hair-loss/cold-caps-scalp-cooling

https://www.breastcancer.org/podcast/cold-caps-basics

Discussion: Hair Hair Hair - Another question

Discussion: Cold Caps Users Past and Present, to Save Hair

We hope these are helpful, and that members who have used Paxman will share their experiences and any tips with you!

The Mods