Gene Testing for breast cancer

[amy11754]

Hello, my name is Maria and I'm 57 yrs old.  Both Mother and Grandmother had breast
cancer.  I had my yearly checkup in October and the mammography showed that my breasts were very dense (which they never were before).  Did have a Ultrasound and everything turned up fine.  I would feel safer if I was give an MRI.  And I'm also interested
in finding out if I have the gene.  Would like to find out more about genetic testing and what it involves.  Do have a small lump which never grows in the left breast, the doctor
could not feel it nor did it show up on the ultrasound and this puzzles me.  It will only enlarge if irratated.  Look forward to hearing from you.

[riley180]

Hi.
Perhaps you need to discuss what options are available before you undergo testing. There are options that involve surgery, radiation, and chemoprevention (drugs). There is yet no perfect strategy as there are ups and downs with whatever path you choose. It may be a good idea to see if any of them are acceptable to you.
Also, you may need to prepare for some decisions that involve your family members. This is a unique test that impacts not only the person tested. While it is your right to know, some of your relatives may not want to know.

[Fernando Roque, MD]

Hi. I'm sending you the address of the Mayo Clinic web page on genetic testing for breast cancer.  Not all women need this kind of screening procedure.  The web page lists down criteria if this test is appropriate for you. You can go to: http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/genetic-testing-for-breast-cancer/HQ00350