Bee stings to treat cancer leave woman's breasts necrotic

Two years ago the unidentified woman had lumps in the breast and was diagnosed with bilateral breast cancer at the Ho Chi Minh City Oncology Hospital.

But she showed signs of psychological distress and refused to be treated at the hospital despite her family’s repeated attempts.

Eventually they turned to home remedies.

Based on online information claiming that "bee venom can kill cancer cells within 24 hours," her family bought dozens of bees and had them sting her breasts directly.

Her condition did not improve, and, instead, her right breast became increasingly swollen and filled with pus.

Overwhelmed by pain, the patient used a razor blade to cut the breast open to "drain the pus."

The ulcer deepened and bled constantly.

Only after this did the woman agree to seek treatment at Xuyen A General Hospital.

Pham Anh Tu, an oncologist at the hospital, said Wednesday that the patient was admitted with advanced-stage cancer, an ulcerated right breast and metastatic lymph nodes in her armpit and neck.

The surgical team performed bilateral mastectomy and skin grafting to cover the damaged chest area as the tumor had deeply infiltrated and invaded much of her chest wall.

After surgery the patient's health has recovered gradually.

Doctors are continuing chemotherapy in the hope of extending her life.