Need a ONCO DX test but was started on letrozole before surgery
I find myself in a difficult place with no options. I'm 63, dx'd with R multi-centric Est+/Prog- IDC, negative nodes x 4, 3 weeks post-op bilat. mastectomy. The oncologist says there is not enough tissue from the multiple biopsies to do the Onco DX test. Letrozole treatment started prior to surgery due to long waiting time. I'm now told the Prog- feature of my cancer may indicate a more aggressive type of cancer that can only be evaluated by an onco dx test. I'm told that I'm out of luck on that one.... no extra monitoring will be done, just report any "headaches, stomach problems and/or respiratory problems. This means metastasis to the brain, liver and or lung. Why not an annual PET scan? CEA tests? Something??? Maybe contacting the company that makes the Onco test can help? I feel I've fallen through the safety net here. Any information or help would be appreciated.
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I am very glad that you taking charge of the things you can! In terms of changing lifestyle, exercise and diet, would you please share more details on them? How and what do you do? I really want to improve myself to a healthier life style too. Best wishes!
I understand they keep the tumours in the lab
I asked for the Onco testing well after
My surgery & Waiting results I had bilateral lumpectomy all my surgeons agreed and directed me against mastectomy
No lymph involvement
For 5 chemos Lectrazole & Zomec after hereditary testing & bone density
Thank you, Daisy. Now that my energy is returning, 22 lbs heavier and very out of shape after 10 months of diagnostics, emotional trauma, severe fatigue, treatments, and 2 major surgeries. I will be getting back to my healthy eating of organic fresh fruits, veggies, less meat well-sourced, and healthy fats (organic expeller first pressed olive oil). This requires lots of energy to keep this up, shopping, meal planning, and cooking, none from diagnosis to recovery this past year. I started my morning walks again and hope to build up speed and distance. I plan on returning to a gym to do yoga, pilates, and some general weight training for strengthening. I've lost 3 lbs, 20 to go. More importantly, I need to stay active.
I hope this answers your question. Best wishes to you.
There are a couple of proxies for the Oncotype DX that might be helpful:
1. The Magee Equations and the Modified Magee Equations.
2. The Nottingham Prognostic Index.
In a situation like this, I would ask my oncologist about their value for decision-making.