IDC, her-, hr+, 2 node positive, chemo question please.

I have a similar diagnosis. How large is your tumor and what stage are you? My tumor size plus 2 nodes earned me chemo even tho my oncotype was 18. is that the test you were denied

You could call Genomic Health, the company that does the Oncotype Dx test, for advice. They can advise you based on your node status and perhaps also advise you on the insurance issue or work with your doctor on getting the order.

I had one positive node and did not do chemo.

Onoctype is very good about financial assistance. 9 years ago you could qualify if you were in the low 6 figures on income! I would call them they are super helpful. You need the test before making a good decision about chemo.

Hi!

I was recently diagnosed with IDC, 2B... tests show 2 lymph nodes ‘only’, and I was not given the oncotype either (instead, I had other genetic testing).

My understanding is that the Oncotype is only proven helpful for those without lymph node involvement only - although I have read that they are doing studies to see if it is an effective tool for those with lymph node involvement. That is probably why insurance denied it.

Keep in mind that imaging is not perfect; it’s just the best they have now.

I am having my 3rd TAC chemo tomorrow, and I am sluggish that week, and then quickly start progressing back to normal (or close to it) within a couple of days. Taste is an issue for 2 weeks too...3rd week starts getting better, but then the next round ruins that again.

No, chemo is not ideal, and I am not that bothered by the hair (it will grow back). I bought a cute wig (bob style close to my own style), and I wear cute hats with the wig too, mostly so people stop staring at me at work (office)...my point is, the purpose of the chemo is systemic... to kill cancer that could possibly be beyond the lymph nodes.

However, they can’t definitely say ‘only’ 2 lymph nodes until they do my surgery (approx March/April) ... as of now, I am candidate for sentinel biopsy (which helps determine if it’s in the axillary nodes)..

I hope I helped, because there’s a ton of info out there and it’s overwhelming... I keep a detailed notebook to keep my head on straight.

Best to you! You can do this! One day at a time... breathe...hugs and ⚡️💪🏻⚡️

Hi,

I just happened to be looking at this thread and saw the comments about Mammoprint. I had it and had chemo and insurance would not pay it. I worked with an advocate at Agendia and ended up paying $300.00. Worth every penny. I made it through chemo over 2 years ago now and have had many haircuts since!!!! No, not easy, but did it and for me, it was the right decision. I got my strength back after a few months and am doing several exercise classes and can power walk 5 miles. I am 69 years old. Be strong and do it and move on!!!!

Lynn

Zoom123,

I like that perspective. It's only a few months out of the years itvwill extend your life!!! Good luck and come to us for support!!! We got you!!!

Houmom,

I don't know how I honestly feel about any of the treatments, I just want to be free from cancer!!! My plan is to choose chemo, radiation, bilateral mastectomy and hormones of all will help!!! The only thing I have control over during this nasty illness is the idea that I can control my treatments!!! That's it!! Cancer choose me as it did all of us, but we can choose how we fight it and go forward once we are diagnosed!!!