Everyone who is deciding whether or not to get genetic testing should first ask:
- "Why am I getting tested?"
- "What will this test mean for me?"
- "What are the benefits of testing?"
- "Are there any implications I should consider?"
In general, the advantages of tamoxifen response testing outweigh the potential negative effects. Some of the concerns that are common for other types of genetic tests – like discrimination issues or the impact on family members – don't apply to this type of test. However, genetic testing is always a choice. If you are considering CYP2D6 testing for tamoxifen response, you may want to consider some of the issues listed below.
| Pros | Cons |
- Testing for the most common CYP2D6 variants will find most of the gene changes that change how well tamoxifen works.
- Testing for CYP2D6 variants is reliable and accurate.
- If you have a CYP2D6 variant, you can consider a therapy that will work better for you.
- If you don't have a CYP2D6 variant, you can take tamoxifen. This drug is very effective for preventing and treating breast cancer in many women.
- Some people find genetic testing that guides treatment choices useful when making personal decisions about such issues as medical insurance or financial planning.
| - Genetic testing won't find all CYP2D6 variants. Uncommon changes in the CYP2D6 gene can be missed.
- Insurance doesn't always cover genetic testing and testing can be expensive.
- Test results can lead to significant and sometimes unexpected emotional reactions. You may try to anticipate how a positive or negative result may make you feel and what you may do with the information.
- CYP2D6 testing doesn't look for inherited gene changes that can cause breast and ovarian cancer. If you have a family history of breast or ovarian cancer or are worried you may have an inherited form of breast cancer, you should talk to your doctor or a genetic counselor. Separate testing for inherited cancer genes is available.
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