Oncotype DX Test

Genomic tests, such as the Oncotype DX look at groups of genes and how active they are. Genetic tests, such as BRCA 1 and BRCA 2 look at an individual’s inherited traits or genes.

All breast cancer tumors are unique. Key differences between individual tumors influence the likelihood of the cancer recurring. These differences are associated in part with the level of expression of a certain group of cancer-related genes. This genomic test (Oncotype DX) looks at a group of 21 genes and their activity in breast tumor tissue and uses a mathematical equation to translate it into a numerical value, which indicates the likelihood that a woman’s cancer will return or recur (distant recurrence).

The Recurrence Score™ result gives information about how likely the woman is to benefit from chemotherapy in addition to hormonal therapy and adds information beyond traditional factors such as tumor size, tumor grade, and the woman’s age by looking at the biological makeup of her tumor. The Oncotype DX test does not provide information about an individual’s inherited genetic makeup but provides information about the genetic activity of the tumor and is designed for patients with node-negative, estrogen-receptor-positive, early-stage (I or II) breast cancer, which is the type I have. Research has shown that the Oncotype DX Recurrence Score is effective in predicting the likelihood of disease recurrence within ten years and the magnitude of chemotherapy that goes beyond traditional measures.

The Oncotype DX test is currently being conducted on tissue taken from my initial lumpectomy in December. Results take approximately 2 weeks. Once results are received I will meet with my Oncologist and we will devise the next battle plan. Until then, it's more of trying to be patient and live each day to the fullest. The silver lining in this is I think the waiting will give me an opportunity to mentally and emotionally prepare (at least as much as possible) for the possibility of having to endure chemo and the side effects that are associated with it. Up until now I had been told that only radiation would be needed. You do what you have to (as if your life depended on it - sort of like with the MRI!) Maybe I'll even try on a couple of wigs or two while I wait - I have always wanted to have long, curly, blonde hair. Hmm....now if I can also be at least 5'4"! ;0)

TTFN!