Oncotype DX test

Hi Everyone,

I've noticed a few posts asking about the Oncotype DX test and I just wanted to add my experience on this for anyone who is thinking of getting this test done.

I was diagnosed with early breast cancer in January this year. I had a lumpectomy and the tumour was 15mm, grade 2, hormone +, Her2 negative, with clear margins and no cancer in the lymph nodes.  Because of the size and grade of my tumour, my treatment team advised that I may benefit from chemo, however it was up to me if I wished to have it.  Well this is a horrible decision to have to make on your own.  I am in awe of all the brave women and men out there who successfully go through chemo every day, however I watched my mum go through chemo two years ago and I didn't want to have it if it wasn't going to be any benefit to me.  So, I decided to get the Oncotype DX test done to help me with my decision.

My surgeon organised to send the tumour off to the US where the test is done. It is very expensive (around $4000), but I was fortunate enough to get a free trial of the test through my hospital, however I would have paid for it if I had to.  I had to delay my treatment until I got the results back, which took 4 weeks,  it came back that chemo would be little to no benefit to me, so I am now waiting to start 6 weeks of radiation in early April.

Apparently there are a lot of women out there who are like me and their cancer falls in that gray area for treatment options.  I really wish this test was more accessible to everyone. Perhaps this is something that BCNA can help with by lobbying the government?? (if you're not already).

Anyway, long story to say that even though I had to wait a long time, I am so glad I got this test done to clarify my treatment options, and even though I haven't started my radiotherapy, I can at least see the light at the end of the tunnel. 

Myra