DCIS--genetic testing--oophorectomy--I am confused

I am 48 .  An excisional biopsy was done on 12/3 for a small group of microcalcifications.  Pathology report showed "low grade 3mm DCIS" and "multiple small foci of LCIS 1 mm or less"  with clear margins.

My surgeon told me that the treatment would probably be radiation and tamoxofin.  He also recommended genetic testing of my mother because she has had ovarian cancer at 47--breast cancer at 55 and colon cancer at 72. Their is also a cousin and aunt who had ovarian cancer at an early age.

I met with the radiologist and he told me that because the tumor was 3mm with clear margins he did not recommend radiation unless I was a "worrier" but I would need tamoxofin--and if for some reason I did not take tamoxofin then I would need the radiation.

I met with the oncologist who is also a genetic specialist.  He feels that the first thing that should be done is genetic testing on my mother and then if she is BRCA positive--I would be tested and if I was positive I shoud have an oophorectomy rather than tamoxofin.

I was mentally prepared for the radiation and tamoxofin asap and now this genetic stuff is going to take a couple of months--Is this a common type of treatment recommendation for this situation?

Camas

[CCF-RN,MSN-rf]

Dear Camas:  I believe the doctors are talking about two different things.  Treatment of the breast problem may entail radiation and/or tamoxifen.  The rationale for the oopherectomy is to lower the risk of ovarian cancer.  Removing the ovaries would also remove much of the estrogen produced (similar to tamoxifen).  However, some would suggest that not all estrogen is produced by the ovaries and in some cases, tamoxifen may be recommended any way.  Also, why do they need to test your mother first.  You already have an indication that you are at high risk for breast cancer - why not just test you.  In either case, you could certainly plead your case for beginning treatment now.  If you proceed with testing you could always opt for the oopherectomy and stop the tamoxifen later.