Muga Scans-How Often

[Unregistered]

My oncologist wants me to have MUGA's every 6 weeks while completing my 1 year of Herception. Is this typical?

[Henny]

Seems like a lot to me. Are you having any cardiac issues?
I could see getting an echocardiogram that often since there isn't any radiation involved with that test. But if there is a reasonable medical need then the radiation exposure is well justified
Henny

[juanita]

I had 3 or 4 done during my year of herceptin. That was including the one before starting the herceptin.

['lizbeth]

My oncologist wants to do my Mugas every 3 months while on Herceptin.

[CindyE]

I had my baseline Muga done before the first treatment of Herceptin in May. I'm having my second one done on Sept. 4. My Onc Dr. wanted to wait until I had 5 treatments of Herceptin at the 4 month mark. I have no heart problems and am hoping my score stays in the health range.

Best wishes on your muga.

[rosemary]

I ended up in the hospital with congestive heart failure 5 weeks after a normal MUGA scan (I also had a respritory virus which may have contributed to the heart failure but I had no risk factors for heart problems). Your dr. is being cautious but because of my experience I think that is a good thing.

[flynny]

That does sound like a lot to me too. I had one prior to having my AC, then right before I started Taxol/Herceptin, and I will have my next one on 9/29 (same day as I start just Herceptin). I believe I will have them every 3 mos, as I will have 9 mos of Herceptin (every 3 wks).

[BethC]

I had echocardiograms every 3 months. They were totally easy (unlike the MUGA) because it was just an ultrasound. Good luck to you!

[DanaRT]

I had a MUGA scan 2 weeks treatment (TCH) and now have one every 3 months until December.

Hope this helps.