[chrisy]

Hi Deena

No, I haven't had this done and don't know anyone who has - but I'm a little familiar with the concept and Dr. Nagourney's work. A few years back, ASCO declined to recommend this approach but my opinion is that this was because it was not "proven" to be of benefit, proof only being available after lots of testing. Thus they did not recommend it as it is expensive, not without risk (as you note, getting sufficient sample is no easy task) and not certain to provide any benefit.

Also, cells (even your own cells) behave differently in a test tube than in your body - another reason that sort of testing may be met with skepticism. This in a strange way could also work against you - I wonder if there is danger of a false negative (meaning the test shows something wouldn't work when in reality it might - and you cross it off your list without trying it?)

The impression I got from the ASCO (non) recommendation was that they felt it was just not ready for prime time.

This thinking may begin to shift as more and more focus is placed on individualized treatment based on the characteristics of the person's specific cancer - and more is validated about the testing itself.

Still, it is your life and, although they may not recommend it - it should be your decision. It will be "information" that can be either used or disregarded.

All that said, I too was/am interested in that approach, it made sense to me and I would be open to trying that myself. But of course I'm not a doctor, just a patient!

Let us know what you find out, I'm sure there are others who are interested in knowing!