serum her2?

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roachrp
roachrp Member Posts: 44
edited June 2014 in HER2+ (Positive) Breast Cancer

hi ladies!  i just heard about the serum her2 test and wondered if it is generally available, or is it only through a clinical trial?  anyone know?  my original dx was her2 neg but i wonder if my mets might be +.

thanks so much!

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  • nutrachris
    nutrachris Member Posts: 11
    edited April 2009

    The Serum HER2 test has been available for several years. It is FDA approved. Several women on the HER2 Support website are using it. In one case it indicated a progression before any other test and her oncologist was able to adjust her treatnment accordingly.

    It is not a difinitive test but is used in conjunction with other tumor markers. The test is also realitively cheap about $300 and almost all insurance companies pay without hesitation.

    Hugs

    Christine 

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  • jfeder56
    jfeder56 Member Posts: 1
    edited May 2009

    Hi, roachrp --

    I have stage IV BC and have had several biopsies for Her2, all of which came back negative.  Last fall, I found out about the serum Her2 test, and asked my onc if I could have it.  She agreed, and the results came back positive -- twice.  As a result, I've been on Herceptin (and Navelbine) since late January.  I had had a lot of progression, and for the first time, had to go on pain meds.  I seem to be having an excellent response to my new treatment -- no scans yet, because my onc wants to give it time to work.  But I'm feeling much, much better, my blood work is improved, and I'm quite optimistic that the Herceptin is working for me.  Good luck!

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  • my2boys
    my2boys Member Posts: 339
    edited May 2009

    jfeder - your story brought tears to my eyes.  I'm thrilled for you.  Keep us posted.

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  • roachrp
    roachrp Member Posts: 44
    edited May 2009

    jfeder - it is wonderful to hear you were able to identify the status and begin the herceptin!  it's very encouraging that you are feeling much better!  my doc seems reluctant to use the serum test.  i shall keep asking!  take good care.  you'll be in my thoughts.

     nutrachris- thanks for the information.

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