Brain mets & Herceptin

lisahammo · 01-02-2006, 08:22 PM

Have just read the site about having regular MRI's to check for brain mets. I have been concerned about brain mets for myself, however my onc tells me that none of her patients have developed brain mets while on Herceptin. So, I am wondering how many of you out there have developed brain mets since you have been on Herceptin, without any hint of it previously. I am due for another brain scan in March, and will definitely be pushing for it.
Look forward to hearing from everyone.
Lisa

kristen · 01-03-2006, 07:31 AM

Dear Lisa,

I think the statistics for metastatic BC patients with her2, there is a 20-30% chance of getting mets to the brain. I think Joe has posted in the past that there is a section on it on this board.
If these women were metastatic, they were probably getting Herceptin.
For first time patients with adjuvent use of Herceptin, I don't think there is anything really "out there" as far as percentage rates. But it does happen. I think anyone who has her 2 should get brain MRI's. Herceptin does not cross the BBB. My nuerologist has given me MRI's since DX, 2 yrs ago. She fully believes in that it can happen, where onc's sometimes will wait until you have symptoms. It's too bad because when you hear from these other women, soooo many of them did not have any symptoms. If your onc will give them to you, I say peace of mind is everything. I would get it done.

01-03-2006, 06:42 PM

Thanks Kirsten. It is nearly 12 months since I had an MRI, so I will suggest another scan shortly. Thanks for replying.

Lisa