[Surveillance of a woman treated for breast cancer]

The intensive follow up of breast cancer patients is not safer than a minimalist policy for breast cancer surveillance. The survival rate is not modified by the use of expensive exams. The follow up program is anxiogenous, delay the reinsertion of the patients and useless because in 75% of cases the patient herself discovered the relapse. A good clinical examination, including gynaecological examination and a mammography are sufficient for a good follow up practice. The guidelines for the follow up of breast cancer patients include self examination of the breast monthly, clinical examination twice a year and an annual mammography during five years and an annual clinical examination and a mammography after. The radiotherapist, the surgical or medical oncologist should be involved with the general practitioner for this follow up.