Genetic Testing

[Redwahine]

This is an FYI for anyone else interested. If you have a close relative that has/had breast or ovarian cancer, most insurance companies pay for the genetic testing for the mutation. The 1st level test is BRCA 1 and second level is BRCA 2. Then there is a more in depth test that does a lot sequencing and permutations to look for those rare mutations. This extra test is not covered and costs $700.

I had the BRCA 1 & 2 down and both came back negative for mutations. These were covered by my insurance. I'm trying to decide if I should spend the extra $$ for the additional testing.

My history includes:
Aunt had breast cancer 20 yrs ago and she is still a survivor.
Mom had ovarian cancer...found early and she survived long time (died from Alzheimer's)
Paternal grandma** died from ovarian cancer at age of 49 (before I was born)
My CA 125 (blood test for ovarian cancer) was monitored for 15 yrs and when it began to rise ...out came the ovaries...but ther are lots of parts that still can get "ovarian cancer"
I have had two different breast biopsies that turned out neg.
Docs kept suggesting I have the genetic testing done. So, I did. The first level is negative. I just have to decide if it is worth $700 to find out if I have one of the rarer forms.

** I didn't know about my paternal grandma's ovarian cancer until I started doing some genealogy and ordered a copy of her death certificate. She died before I was born and my dad died when I was 5.

[monik7]

Just my opinion Chris. I say go for it. Think of the peace of mind it will give you to find it negative. That's worth WAAAAY more than $700.
Sandi

[JoanE]

Red, if you have the addt'l test and it is positive, then what?

[Redwahine]

Red, if you have the addt'l test and it is positive, then what?

Good question. I need to think about that!!

[monik7]

I would assume you would follow the recommendations of your doctor if it's positive. At least you would know about it way before it becomes a problem. I'm a worrier and anything to lessen or eliminate worry in my life would be my choice.
Sandi

[JoanE]

Well if you have the gene for Huntington's' there is nothing to prevent or cure it. In fact some people commit suicide 2hen they find out as the disease is so insideous. I do not think these tests are necessarily good unless you can prevent, lessen or cure.

[JudyJB]

Ovarian cancer is scary because most people do not have symptoms until after it spreads, so if the genetic test shows you have the gene, you can have a preventive removal of the ovaries and a hysterectomy. I know someone who had a double mastectomy at a fairly young age because she did have that gene.

The whole thing is scary, but I think I would want to know. Luckily, to my knowledge no one in my larger family has had ovarian or breast cancer, so I have not worried about the test.