Waiting for Genetic Testing results

bgirl

Where I am it takes about 6-8 weeks for results as the blood is sent to a lab in the the US - I guess they hold the rights to the 23 gene breast/ovarian panel. I was already struggling with anxiety with this second diagnosis and am trying not to spin too much. It was this diagnosis of bilateral breast cancer that precipitated this referral.

I had been doing okay about going for the test when I found out my cousin was diagnosed with BC end of January. Set the wheels going. I have 3 daughters and it already scares me that they are at increased risk of BC just because of my diagnoses. If I test + for a mutation this could be even higher. Trying not to freak out. Doesn't help that I am exhausted, starting to wonder if I'm anemic again. Have Herceptin #12 on Monday and feel like I can hardly face it.

Anyone have + or - stories about getting tested??

vlnrph

You might want to check out the FORCE website. Originally started by some with BRCA mutations, it stands for Facing Our Risk of Cancer Empowered. Besides your cousin, was there other family history?

Every year, more is learned about genetics. Depending on their ages, your girls may have a much different experience by the time they are old enough to think about the options available to them.

One of the issues that remains unclear is when testing brings a result classified as variation of unknown significance. Research is helping to define when these are thought to be pathogenic and what action can or should be taken.

bgirl

vinrph Not a lot of family history. I was 46 the first time I was diagnosed and 53 the second. My girls are 24,26 & 29. So, for the oldest especially, it really isn't that far off to consider screening options. Maybe sooner depending upon the genetic results.

I will check out that website. Thanks for the info.