Testing for the right chemo drug

[Sandy]

Does anyone know if there is a test to see which chemo drugs will work? It seems to me I once, saw somewhere that this was possible. If so I am wondering why its not being used. I am brain storming tonight. Thanks, Hugs, Sandy

[Linda in Calif]

Hi Sandy: I heard the same thing about a year and a half ago. Seems to me they took a tissue sample of the tumor and tested the different drugs on it. I remember I was disappointed because I already had my mastectomy and didn't have any tumor tissue left to use. Wonder if you can have it done if you have disease progression and new tumors...don't see why not. I don't know if this has been helpful but would be interested in what you find out. Take Care, Linda

[Sandy]

Hi Linda: I do remember about needing tissue for testing. I still have tissue from my biopsy and surgery and understand it will be there as long as I am battling this disease. Are you sure there isn't some being stored in a bank? I will research this more and ask my doctor as well. Hugs, Sandy

[Elaine, UK]

Dear Sandy / Linda

Good for you for brain storming Sandy. This is how we get further with treatment ideas!

Yes, there is such a thing as testing the tumour for the right chemo. Michael Broffman at the Pine Street Clinic, LA told me about it. He can be contacted at: http://www.psmerg.org

Meanwhile, the following place in LA tests out tumours for chemo response:

http://www.rationaltherapeutics.com/about_us/about_rt.htm

However I believe Linda is right, you do need a sample of your tumour. I know in the UK they keep tumours for research. Perhaps this is so with your tumour? You could always ask your doc and if it has been preserved correctly, may be it would work??

Take care and good luck

Elaine

[Elaine, UK]

Dear Sandy / Linda

Good for you for brain storming Sandy. This is how we get further with treatment ideas!

Yes, there is such a thing as testing the tumour for the right chemo. Michael Broffman at the Pine Street Clinic, LA told me about it. He can be contacted at: http://www.psmerg.org

Meanwhile, the following place in LA tests out tumours for chemo response:

http://www.rationaltherapeutics.com/about_us/about_rt.htm

However I believe Linda is right, you do need a sample of your tumour. I know in the UK they keep tumours for research. Perhaps this is so with your tumour? You could always ask your doc and if it has been preserved correctly, may be it would work??

Take care and good luck

Elaine

[Judy]

I asked my oncologist this very thing when I had my first consultation. He said "yes, they can test the tumor to see what chemo works best". But, he said that what works in the lab doesn't always work in the body.