Genetic Counseling - How Long Does it Take? Of Benefit or Just another Hoop?

I have a 4 cm complex cyst on my right ovary that is painful.  I've had this for 6 months (unchanged).  My CA-125 levels range from 23 - 36 (in order by month 36, 26, 28, 23). My mother had ovarian cancer at 58 and is still alive today at age 78.  Her sister (my aunt) had ovarian cancer at age 68 and died from it.  I asked for and got a referral to a gynecologic oncologist and saw him yesterday.  Now, he has referred me to get genetic testing and counseling; testing for the BCRA1 & BCRA2 gene mutations.  That is scheduled for June 5th. How LONG does it take to get the results back from genetic counseling and the blood tests?   Time is being wasted in my opinion.  Since I want the cyst removed ANYWAY due to discomfort, why not operate now and THEN do the genetic testing so they can have their data?

[Annekathryn Goodman, M.D.]

Hi There,
The genetic tests will help decide if you should consider having both your ovaries removed. However, if this ovary is bothering you, I agree. Get it removed. I believe it takes about two weeks to get the results back but you should check with the genetic counselor on this.

best wishes