would like to be tested for the CYP2D6 Gene to see if Tamoxifen is the right choice?
I had an early stage one breat cancer. I had a lumpectomy and 7 weeks of radiation.The cancer had not spread to my lymph nodes and the oncotype dx test revealed that my cancer was not aggressive. I have been taking Tamoxifen for 2 and half years and will be switched to an aromatase inhibitor at the end of this month. This does not thrill me as it has adverse effects for the bones. I have made a good adjustment to Tamoxifen, do not have an uterus and I am 58 and post menapausal. I have read about being tested for an active CYP2D6 gene to see if Tamoxfein is a good choice. What are your thoughts about this? Thank You, Kathy Kauss
Kathy, for someone with your diagnosis, and at your age, tamoxifen is a good choice - but an aromataste inhibitor has been proven more effective at preventing recurrence - at the expense of diminished bone health, it's true. Tough choice - stay on tamoxifen and have a slightly increased risk of recurrence? Or go to an AI and lower your risk, but pretty much guarantee yourself decreased bone density? This is a discussion you should have with your oncologist, as well as your PCP. Good luck - PJH
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