Is there a standard for follow-up tests?

[G. Ann]

For those who have had MRIs, PET scans, cancer marker tests, did you have reasons to warrant the additional tests such as positive lymph nodes or new symptoms? Or are the tests you've received just the standard? Did everyone receive MRI or PET scan before their tx began? I've been reading comments since Fall 2005, mainly focusing on Herceptin, but now noticing frequency of follow-up testing mentioned. It seems to be automatically ordered by most onc's.

I've never had brain MRI, breast MRI, or any other MRIs, PET scan, bone scan, and no cancer marker blood work. I was seeing onc every 6 months after first year, now 3-4 months for onc visits since beginning Herceptin 1/06. I have had 2 MUGA scans, one before chemo and one before beginning Herceptin. I was originally Dx'd 2/04, HER2+, er/pr-, stage 2 invasive ductal BC, mastectomy (2.5 cm tumor) with 15 nodes removed (all negative). Had 4 AC/Cytoxan tx's ending 6/04, but no Taxol/taxotere.

Since 8/04, remaining breast has had 4 cysts-2 FNA's performed, 2 other lumps checked by FNA but NED, and now increase in microcalcifications from latest mammo, which report stated "probably benign." Considering removing remaining breast, mainly for anxiety. Now I'm wondering about lack of other tests performed. Thanks for info.