Understanding Breast Cancer Terms and Tests: A Patient's Guide

AI are Aromatase Inhibitors, like letrozole and anastrozole. Mets are Metastasis, usually referring to metastatic breast cancer.

I think oncotype testing is important, it helps determine treatment. Scores below 25 don’t typically need chemotherapy from what I understand. If you are ER/PR+ and HER2-, then you can do oncotype testing. I may ask your oncologist why they wouldn’t order it.

Thank you Nell, do you happen to know what is oncotype and what does it test for?

Here is what pops up regarding the test. It’s done through Exact Science Labs. My oncologist practice follows protocols from Dana Farber. Since you said it’s your 2nd time diagnosed, maybe the protocol is different. I would definitely ask your oncologist to explain. I hope this helps. The Oncotype DX test is a genomic test used to assess the risk of recurrence in early-stage, hormone receptor-positive, HER2-negative breast cancer. It helps doctors determine if chemotherapy is necessary in addition to hormone therapy.

I’m very sorry you’re dealing with this, sounds like for the 2nd time.

Thanx again Nell!

My insurance would not cover Oncotype, but did cover Mammoprint which came back ultra low risk.

Eileen, my doctors ordered the Oncotype test right after surgery in pathology. I was told only one lab does this and it’s in CA. Took almost 3 weeks for results to return. I was told a score of 25 plus would mean you require (benefit from) chemotherapy. If below 25, you would not benefit from chemo. Mine was a score of 5, and I’m only doing radiation now with an AI after treatment of 20 is over. Hoping my AI experience goes smooth. Yes I totally believe in being a health advocate for yourself. Ask questions!

Aww, can't tell you how much I appreciate all the responses I've received! Thank you for your input and info regarding your personal experiences. Much appreciated. I'm gonna insist on oncotype testing. Demand if I have to, my doctor told me that they will know more after I have the tumor removed it's only in my left breast Er+PR+ HER 2 - negative, very aggressive grade three but the only info I've received regarding chemo is that it's only going to be determined after my surgery but she's thinking I will need chemo and radiation I guess I'll have to wait if they're not going to do the oncotype, which sucks cuz I would think having the results of oncotype test is so beneficial to the doctors so they can make an informed decision regarding treatment. Knowledge is power!!

Oh yeah KI 67 IS 75%

Did you have the Ki67 test done at the time Of your first occurrence? I too have a high KI67 score- had a mastectomy and chemo I am considered high risk for recurrence. Sending you positive thoughts and prayers

Cancer terminology can feel overwhelming, especially when dealing with a recurrence. MBC does stand for metastatic breast cancer, and "mets" refers to metastases (cancer that has spread). The oncotype test helps predict chemotherapy benefit for certain early-stage cancers, but doctors consider many factors when recommending it. This community has many members who've navigated similar questions about treatments and side effects - their experiences and insights could be really valuable as you work with your medical team to understand your options.