Rich....
I can only tell you what I was told and what I've read here in a few
posts.
From what I know they are one of the important prognostic factors, along
with size and grade of the tumor once it's removed.
I'm sure others will come along and post some more information to you.
It's a weekend, so give it till tomorrow sometime and I'm sure you'll
get some reply's.
Take care there/God bless you and your family.
annie
p/s watch for a reply from Tim, he usually has good solid information
for the posters in here. @

Ultimately.....we know deeply that the other side of every fear is a
freedom.

"Courage"...is *fear* that has said it's prayers.

Herceptin is as far as I know still only in trial for use before stage
IV.  Her lung condition probably excludes her from such trials.

I would suppose that the treatment options are limited by her
"co-morbidity" or existing problems.  It is a general principle that one
does not order a test unless the result will affect the treatment.  So
if the doctors feel that chemotherapy is not an option, then there is no
point in doing the node biopsy, with its attendant risk of lymphedema.

However, if in doubt, ask the surgeon.

Tim Jackson

Is your Mom getting treatment at a facility connected to a Medical School? I
only mention that since often they have experience dealing with cases that
are challenging. They could do a sentinel biopsy which is not as invasive.
Also her cancer is ER + which often responds to hormonal therapy.