This test, which is only available in the US, looks at 21 of the genes in the cancer cells to try and see how likely it is that the cancer will come back in the future. It's nothing to do with genetic (inherited) testing but looks for abnormalities in gene activity within the cancer cells.
The main reason for testing is to see how beneficial chemotherapy will be in preventing a recurrence on a case-by-case basis, as a lot of people have been put through gruelling chemo for no obvious benefit.
I think I've already said I'll only be eligible for this if the HER2 is negative but I'm very grateful I'm being considered possibly suitable as I know it is expensive (£1,000+) and Ian and I had already discussed paying for it ourselves if I wasn't offered it
So if I can score low enough on this test I probably will be advised not to have chemo, although I believe it will still be my choice (as is all treatment along the way). Different resources give different numbers on the scale so I'm going to wait to hear from the Oncologist before I think too deeply about that.
But first I need the results of the second HER2 test because, as I understand it, if that's positive its chemo anyway 😟
