Muga scan-How often with herceptin?
 

I had a Muga scan prior to AC. It was a 64. Prior to herceptin it was 51. The oncologist wants to repeat it 6 mo. after Herceptin was started. I thought every 3 months was better. What has your doc recommended or what is the "standard" concerning muga scans and Herceptin? Thanks!

I thought the protocol was every 3 mos. When mine went up to 70 from 56 on Herceptin, we went to the 6 month plan. I think if you are in the low 50's I would stick to the 3 month plan. I'd try the COQ10 if you're not doing rads for the fun of it as well. BB

As Bev just said...I have always heard the stardard protocol on MUGA/ECHO's was every 3 months. My onc goes just a bit over three months which is fine with me. But I would be uncomfortable waiting every six months. I think I would just express your concerns about waiting that long. Your onc will probably understand and ok it.

Chelee

I had an echo before chemo began. Then wasn't given a MUGA until 4 months into herceptin. That Muga was fine so oncologist doesn't do any more unless symptoms warrant. I questioned this protocol and was told that "TYPICALLY" adverse effects of herceptin occur within the first 4 months. If I was feeling fine and all else checked out she didn't do MUGA'S. I was a bit leary of this approach but went along with her thinking. Thankfully, I was fine and handled herceptin well.

God Bless -

Mary Jo

Hi,Karla,
The MUGA I had done after chemo and rads showed a LVEF of 55%. But I had no pre-chemo MUGA done, so it's not certain if the AC lowered it, or if it is normally low (at least to me, 55% seems low). My onc will do them every three months. I go for my next one Feb 13. Will be interesting to see if it has dropped any more.
Blessings, Karen

Hi all
My pre-chemo muga was 72. After four A/C's it dropped to 59 and after
Herceptin for 11 weeks 55. I will have muga and echo in two or three months.
They think the first muga was inaccurate, a little too high. I had radiation
after the A/C and now Herceptin.
patb

Karla,

Protocol for either a MUGA or electrocardiogram and every three months while you're on Herceptin. I would insist on every three months.

Going to insist on Muga every 3 mo. Don't know why oncologist said every 6 mo. Thinking about going back to Chicago for opinions and treatment.