HER2 Serum Test

[Joe]

Dear HER2 Support Group Members:

Siemens Healthcare Diagnostics (formerly Bayer Diagnostics), manufactures the Serum HER-2/neu test. We would like to let you know of an opportunity to participate in their 2008 patient outreach and breast cancer education program. Siemens is looking for volunteers that have had a positive experience with the Serum HER-2/neu test and would be willing to share their story. If you would like to participate in the program, or need more information, please contact Connie Mardis at constance.mardis@siemens.com (constance.mardis@siemens.com) or 800-372-1782 ext 7009.

Thank you,

Joe Druther

[schoolteacher]

Joe,

I want to thank you for posting the information on the Serum HER-2/neu. I have been telling my oncologist about it for 3 weeks. He has ordered for the test to be performed. He said, "We would learn how to read the results together."

Amelia

[Joe]

Amelia,

The results are easy to read, first establish a baseline, preferably early in the treatment. Subsequent tests will either show a decrease in circulating HER2 cells if your current treatment is working, an increase if your treatment is ineffective or no change if you are stable.

If the test measures below 15 ng/ml you are considered in remission, above, means cancer activity. The test should be administered about every 3-4 months.

For more info:

http://www.her2support.org/serum.htm

Regards
Joe

[Soccermom]

Dear Joe ,
I have a question..
I am 2 years post Herceptin etc, would there be any benefit to me to test?
Warmly,Marcia

[Julie2]

Joe,

I have been taking it since long time and it is so frustrating that the oncologists don't trust it and they get angry at the mention of it. Because of this it doesn't have any impact on decision making regarding the treatment. Even though it is reliable to me I can't do much about it.

Julie

[Joe]

Christine's oncologist has found the test to be reliable. This or any other test should not be solely relied on, but used in conjunction with other tests and observations.

More and more oncologists are using this test as various studies are published.

Regards
Joe

[Mary Jo]

Hi Joe,

I hope you can help me with my questions. I am presently a 2 year 9 month survivor - NED. My last herceptin treatment was Oct. 2006. Is the her2 serum test something I could still benefit from? Could I have it done to establish a baseline and get the test at my every 6 month onc. visit? Does the her2 serum test have anything to do with er/pr status as I am er/pr negative?

Thank you Joe. I see my onc. in June for my 6 month visit and will bring this up to him.

For all you and Christine do, a big thank you.

Mary Jo