High risk for Breast Cancer

onvaca

I was diagnosed in 2012 with Multifocal ALH and Focal ADH along with focal flat epithelial atypia. At the time no family members were diagnosed. I chose not to take tamoxifen at the time. Now my sister has been diagnosed with invasive breast cancer and mother with DCIS. Has anyone else been in this situation before? I'm just wondering if I should start taking tamoxifen with this new knowledge of cancer in the family. If anyone knows what my risk is now that my 1st degree family member has been diagnosed a month ago. Thxs

MTwoman

onvaca,

it sounds like you might be a good candidate for genetic testing. Have you considered doing that? If so, you should meet with a genetic counselor and she/he will go through your family history and other risk factors in addition to the actual genetic test. Then, they will go through the results to help you better understand their implications.

onvaca

Thanks Mtwoman, I havent met with a counselor but I have had the Braca testing done and it was both negative. My Gyn did the Gail model and I had a 41% chance throughout my life to get breast cancer. I am getting a MRI next week. I havent had one since 2014. I think when you dont have BC you kind of fall through the cracks at a Breast center I use to go too.

MTwoman

If you only had the BRCA testing, you might want to think about having a more comprehensive panel done (and including your new family history). There are so many more genes that they now understand increase a person's risk for bc. I would think an existing 41% lifetime risk would be enough to be prioritized at your Breast center - or through your ob/gyn. Perhaps it's time to see an MO and discuss your personal risk and risk reduction strategies? Good luck!

onvaca

I think your right. I think I need to step up my strategy here. Last mammogram they told me to wait a year for another one. That doesnt sound right when I was getting checked every 6 months. I am switching locations to another Breast Center that will take me a little more seriously. Thanks for all your help!

MTwoman

If you are switching centers, then you want to get a written copy of all of your reports as well as a copy of your images on cd (for comparison) both for your own records and for your new center. You are legally entitled to them, and keeping your own records means you can be more pro-active in follow up. Good luck!

Tchadwick2174

Hello,


I have a very strong risk for breast cancer. My mom 45, sister 38, both grandmother ( one had breast ca & pancreatic, other had breast Ca and ovarian Ca) one before 50 and other in 70's and my dad passed 7 years ago with carcinoid. I have had a lump that I have seen 3 doctors about lastly a breast surgeon. She's did an US and said it was fibrous tissue but with the hx I am terrified. I am currently 43 and have to wait 6 months for an available genetics appt. I am ready for prophylactic mastectomy but I can't get a doctor to ok it without the testing. I feel this is pointless. My insurance will pay with my significant hx. Has anyone else had the surgery without the genetics testing? I am currently in GA and TN area.

Thanks

farmerlucy

I used Color Genomics for the full panel testing. I previously had the braca and Bart testing through Myriad. My onc supported my use of Color Genomics. At the time I did it it looked at 19 genes.It is $249 and self pay. It includes a consultation with a genetic counselor after your get your results. I was very pleased with the testing option. https://www.color.com/