Oncotype score 20

Hi all,

I’m new on here - hello to you all!!!

Feeling a little unsure about my risk score which came back yesterday. I feel a bit low about it when I feel as if I should be celebrating!!

I have just turned 50, pre menopausal, had IDC and a masectomy 6 weeks ago. I need some radiotherapy as tumour near chest wall.

before i got the phone call yesterday I had convinced myself I would need chemo and prepared myself for a positive result.

The BC nurse said I didn’t need chemotherapy as my score was 20. This is obviously on the borders. If it was 21 I would have been advised to have it. The BC nurse did say she had asked the team at the MDT if I wanted chemo would they consider it and they said NO - definitely not.

They have said though that rather than having tamoxifen they want me to have zoladex and I think exemestane so that I can take bisphosphonates to protect my bones.

Obviously I am aware of the risks of chemo & really do not want it if there is little benefit and I also understand the scoring which says I am in the low to medium risk range but it has made me feel a little on edge with it being just borderline.

Has anyone had a similar experience of this score and what was your treatment plan?

I am awaiting an appointment to discuss my endocrine therapy but that will be in a few weeks - I know I will worry until then. My BC nurse was lovely and understood my worry but just really reemphasized the guidance that states no chemo.

May thanks

HR

Hi I haven’t been in your position but can understand your unease as the score was just below the needs chemo range . Your team must be sure about their recommendations as if there are patients who fall in the grey area then the patting themselves is usually given the choice. There will be more factors than just your oncotyoe score that will have fed onto their decision.

You could give the nurses helpline here a call to discuss this - they are very knowledgable . There is also a form you can fill in to request a call back . Best wishes Jill .