triple negative and genetic testing???

Hi

 

I need some help - I was dx with tnbc in jan 2008, i went on to have a lumpectomy, chemo (6 fec,6 doxa) and 15 sessions of radiotherapy. I’m now 6 years in and feel great.

Today i went for my annual check up and my consultant offered me genetic screening because i was 34 when diagnosed! there is no family history of breast cancer or ovarian.

my heads now in turmoil as what to do for the best, my hubbies clams up when we talk about it.

i have two children a son aged 11 and a daughter 9

Help! 

Hi fairfield

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Jo, Moderator

Hi Fairfield,

 

I’ve been for genetic testing (don’t have my results yet) and it was very reassuring. There is a very long wait at the moment, probably the Angelina Jolie effect! 

 

Like you, I had no family history and was diagnosed at 34 with triple negative, then treated and a year later offered genetic testing, I beleive this is now common practice with young women diagnosed triple negative. I had a form to fill before my appointment, I then saw a geneticist. He was very thorough, he went through my form, explained the mutations involved and the implications for my health. He discussed what I might be offered if the result was positive and how the process would work. 

 

The wait for results in my area is 3 months and its been a very long 3 months. But given the information from the geneticist I’ve come to decisions about my future either way.

 

I have a clammed up hubby too.

Good luck!

XxX

Hi Ladies,

 

I have also been for genetic screening after diagnosis of triple neg in Nov 2013 due to family history.( sister and cousin both 38 when diagnosed).

I am currently going through chemo first prior to surgery and rads.The surgeon said the decision on what surgery I may be having would be down to results of BCRA1&2 genes.

Thankfully my results came back NEGATIVE for both genes and it looks like lumpectomy

. Although i was  very worried waiting on results I am glad I did this.

On a positive note they said usually they would only test if at least 4 cases of breast cancer/ovarian was in family history and even though there was 3 in mine it was unlikely I was a carrier and I was at moderate risk. 

hope this helps ease your minds a little

Wyn x

Hey Paula,

 

It seems the guidelines are applied slightly differently in each area. Glad to hear you have an appointment with Genetics. I’m sure there will be no obligation to go along with testing but it will help you make that choice. They are very knowledgable staff.

Hope it goes well, keep us informed!

 

Marion

XxX