Genetic Testing --Please help me think about it

exbrnxgrl

dakrock,

I think “of unknown significance “ sums it up well. It is simply not known what this finding means with what is known by researchers at this time. I think genes of unknown significance pop up on genetic testing for quite a few of us, including myself. My personal advice? We have enough to worry about, don’t waste your time on an unknown. Take care

edj3

I think it means exactly what the report said: it's an anomaly but there's not enough data to say more than that so please keep them informed w/ your address in case they do get enough data to say it's not a big deal or hey, it's a big deal.

Scrafgal

I got the 80+ panel test of cancer genes in the spirit of knowledge is power. I had the test after treatment because I had decided that the results were not going to change my treatment plan and I just wanted to get started. Everything came back negative.

redhead403

I have a vus as well, MSH6. The doc says that they will notify me if they find anything. I am negative for any other gene abnormality. All of my brothers (3) and my father have had prostate cancer, my mother and her sister have had bc, her sister is 1/2 sis. My father had 2 sisters with cancer 1 with breast, the other unknown. I am not worried, just hoping they are going to find out what the variant is in my lifetime. Keep in mind that I am single, no children, almost 70. Just makes you wonder what we don't know about gene abnormalities

momand2kids

Thanks again all... at the minimum I am going to go to the counseling appointment-- I think it is likely I will just give in and have the blood test while I am there (depending on insurance)... does anyone know if insurance generally covers it or what it costs?

HappyThanksgiving

Scrafgal

As I understand it, each insurance company has a threshold of evidence suggesting a possible link before paying. So, based on your counseling interview, where you are asked to discuss family history of cancer etc., there will be an estimated likelihood of genetic link. For me, that was a low percentage likelihood so insurance didn't cover it. My test cost about $250 for the 80+ cancer gene panel. The smaller panel of just breast cancer genes costs much less but I don't remember the various prices. Invitae was the company used by my counselor. I think the pricing of various test is on the firm's website.