Early Detection Is Key
Routine Mammogram Helps One Woman Catch and Resolve Breast Cancer Quickly
"Today, I’m doing well. Thanks to the excellent care from my doctors and nurses and PIH Health, I have nothing but good things to look forward to."- Patricia Domal
A routine screening mammogram may have saved the life of 76-year-old Patricia Domal.
It all started when Patricia received her annual mammogram reminder from PIH Health in October 2022. Her screening result showed an area of concern and to gather more information, the radiologist called her back for an ultrasound and biopsy, which confirmed a diagnosis of early breast cancer.
“I do breast self-exams regularly, but didn’t notice anything,” she said. “However, I did feel like something was ‘off’ in my body— I started seeing changes and began losing weight unexpectedly.”
The radiologist recommended further testing with breast MRI, which detected a small cancer in her other breast as well. After hearing the news, Patricia was in shock and didn’t know what to do next.
That’s where the PIH Health Nurse Navigator was tremendously helpful. Patricia’s nurse navigator answered her questions and coordinated care by setting up all of Patricia’s doctor appointments—from the general surgeon to the oncologist and the plastic surgeon. Based on those discussions, Patricia opted for a double mastectomy.
“When cancer is found in both breasts, a double mastectomy is a good option,” said Samuel Kim MD, PIH Health surgeon. “The surgery removes all breast tissue and can be performed with or without breast reconstruction surgery.”
Two weeks after surgery, Patricia followed up with Jeremy Chuang MD, PIH Health oncologist. “After running additional tests, we determined that Patricia would not need chemotherapy but would benefit from anti-cancer hormone therapy,” said Dr. Chuang.
This was a great relief to Patricia, who was anxious to get back to her normal life.
“Today, I’m doing well. Thanks to the excellent care from my doctors and nurses and PIH Health, I have nothing but good things to look forward to,” she said.
Schedule your mammogram today at PIHHealth.org/Mammogram or call 562.906.5692
