Citation

Dionigi F, Martinelli V, Trotti E, Ferrari A, Garcia-Etienne CA, Valle AD, Grasso D, Ferraris E, Rizzo G, Praticò V, Sgarella A. J. Cancer Educ. 2019; ePub(ePub): ePub.

Affiliation

Università degli Studi di Pavia, Pavia, Italy.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2019, Springer)

DOI

10.1007/s13187-019-01661-9

PMID

31786799

Abstract

In this paper, we present the case of a 48-year-old woman diagnosed with early breast cancer. As candidate for mastectomy, she refused immediate reconstruction. She was referred to a psycho-oncologist for further evaluation and support. Psychological sessions helped reveal a history of intimate partner violence and helped clarify the reason for her refusal to undergo immediate reconstruction. Experience with this case highlights the importance of a multidisciplinary practice in which collaboration between surgeons, oncologists, and mental health professionals leads to a more in-depth understanding of the apparently paradoxical behaviors of patients, and to better care for their needs.

Language: en

Keywords

Breast cancer; Breast reconstruction; Early childhood abuse; Intimate partner violence