Breast cancer gene expression tests are tests performed to personalize the treatment of breast cancer patients. These tests help predict the risk of cancer recurrence and the likelihood of responding to treatment by analyzing the gene expression of cancer cells. Tests such as BRCA, Oncotype DX, MammaPrint, and Prosigna can be included in these tests.
Breast cancer gene expression tests were first used in 2004. These tests have become an important tool in providing a personalized approach to treatment planning for breast cancer patients. The reliability of the results is high, and they are often used effectively to determine the likelihood of response to treatment and the risk of recurrence.
However, it is important that the test results are not based on just one factor and that other clinical and pathological features are also considered. These tests help in making patient-centered decisions in breast cancer treatment and may make treatment more effective.
Breast Cancer Gene Expression Tests
Tests such as Oncotype DX, MammaPrint, and Prosigna evaluate the gene expression of breast cancer patients and categorize them into different risk groups based on the results. These groups are used in treatment planning.
BRCA Gene Test
The BRCA gene test is a genetic test used to detect mutations in the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes. These genes play an important role in the development of certain cancers, such as breast cancer and ovarian cancer. This test is used in individuals with a family history of breast or ovarian cancer, or those with a personal history of cancer. A positive result indicates a mutation in the BRCA genes, which means an increased cancer risk.
In this case, the patient may be recommended for more frequent cancer screenings, risk-reducing surgery, or medications. A negative result indicates that no mutations are found in the BRCA genes, and the individual has an average cancer risk. However, a negative result does not mean that the risk of cancer is completely eliminated, and other risk factors must also be considered. The results of this test are an important tool in determining the patient's cancer risk and helping guide treatment and follow-up processes.
Oncotype DX:
- Used for stage 1, 2, or 3 hormone receptor-positive and HER2-negative tumors.
- Based on the analysis of a 21-gene panel, it determines the risk of cancer recurrence and the likelihood of benefit from chemotherapy.
- A low recurrence score of 0-25 suggests that chemotherapy may not be necessary and the tumor can be treated with hormone therapy.
- A high recurrence score of 26-100 suggests that chemotherapy may help reduce the risk of cancer recurrence.
MammaPrint:
- This test can be performed regardless of hormone receptor and HER2 status.
- Suitable for any invasive breast cancer smaller than 5 cm and not spread to more than 3 lymph nodes.
- Analyzes 70 different genes and determines the likelihood of cancer recurrence as low or high risk.
Prosigna:
- Used for hormone receptor-positive and postmenopausal breast cancer patients.
- Can test stage I or II cancers not spread to lymph nodes, or stage II cancers without more than 3 positive lymph nodes.
- Classifies the 10-year recurrence risk as low, intermediate, or high based on the analysis of 50 genes.
What Do the Test Results Mean?
These tests play an important role in the treatment planning of breast cancer patients. However, testing is not necessary for all patients. In advanced-stage cancers, different evaluation methods may be used to make treatment decisions. Further research is being conducted on the effectiveness of these tests and which patients they are most suitable for.
Breast cancer gene expression tests are important tools used to provide a personalized and more effective approach to treatment planning for patients. It is important to discuss these tests with your doctor to learn more and determine whether they are appropriate for you.
Who Can Undergo Breast Cancer Gene Expression Tests?
Breast cancer gene expression tests are personalized medicine methods used, especially in hormone receptor-positive and HER2-negative tumors diagnosed at an early stage. These tests help optimize treatment options by determining the risk of cancer recurrence and the likelihood of response to chemotherapy.
Oncotype DX test for stage I, II, or III hormone receptor-positive tumors; Prosigna for postmenopausal hormone receptor-positive tumors; and MammaPrint for tumors smaller than 5 cm and not spread to lymph nodes may be considered. These tests contribute to making more informed and effective decisions in patient treatment planning. However, the patient's condition and tumor characteristics should be considered before conducting the tests.
