Hereditary Spherocytosis Gene Panel Test Cost & Procedure

HER2 – what is it?

The HER2 gene codes for a protein called the human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2). Some breast cancer cells have HER2 proteins on their surface. They send out signals to breast cancer cells to divide and grow when they are active.

HER2 proteins normally regulate and control the development of breast cells. The HER2 gene, however, produces an excessive amount of HER2 proteins when it is altered, which occurs in around 1 in every 5 cases of breast cancer. As a result, breast cells start growing and dividing too quickly.

Is HER2 testing necessary?

Breast tumours that are HER2-positive frequently have higher levels of aggression. Also, they are more likely to recur. Drugs that are intended to target HER2 are fortunately readily available. This form of breast cancer is very well managed by these medications.

You must understand whether your breast cancer is HER2-positive or HER2-negative if you have the disease. The tests that establish this are crucial to get. Regarding your prognosis and treatment options, the outcome is quite important.

The tests FISH and IHC

Your doctor will prescribe testing that is carried out on a tissue sample to establish if your breast cancer is HER2-positive.

In situ hybridization (ISH or FISH)

Immunohistochemistry are the two test modalities that have been authorised for the diagnosis of HER2 (IHC).

(ISH or FISH) tests for in situ hybridization An in situ hybridization (ISH) test analyses the sample's genetic makeup, and its outcomes can be positive, negative, or ambiguous. Further research is necessary when a result is ambiguous. An ISH test is called fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH).

IHC tests may occasionally come first. However, an ISH test should be carried out if IHC testing is inconclusive. It is frequently possible to determine if a malignancy is HER2-positive or HER2-negative with an ISH test.

Tests using immunohistochemistry (IHC)

To determine if breast cancer cells have an excessive number of HER2 protein receptors, immunohistochemistry (IHC) tests are performed. This test's interpretation by your doctor is as follows:

• A score of 0 is unfavourable.
• A score of 1+ is likewise unfavourable.
• A score of 2+ is regarded as ambiguous (uncertain).
• An outcome of 3+ is favourable.

Takeaway

Your doctor will probably ask for a variety of tests if you just received a breast cancer diagnosis in order to better understand the disease and determine the best course of treatment. A HER2 test ought to be part of these tests.

Before beginning treatment, be sure you are aware of all the results. Ask your doctor if a HER2 test needs to be done if your breast cancer has come back after being treated.