If you’ve been diagnosed with stage II or stage III A/B colon cancer, you have a number of treatment options to consider. But how do you choose the right therapy for you?
The Oncotype DX Colon Recurrence Score test looks at the biology of your tumor to find out how likely your cancer is to return.1-4. Based on the results, you and your doctor can understand your disease progression and choose the best course of treatment for you.
You may be a candidate for the Colon Recurrence Score test if:
Each patient has an individualized level of risk, making the choice of treatment different for everyone. Part of your decision involves understanding the likelihood of your cancer returning and how your condition is managed after surgery.
Before the Colon Recurrence Score test, doctors could only base their recommendations on a few tumor features including margin width, size, and grade. The Colon Recurrence Score test provides information about your tumor that traditional methods can’t offer, including additional information about the chance of your cancer returning and spreading.1-4
The Colon Recurrence Score test is performed on tissue removed during your initial surgery (resection), so no additional procedures or samples are needed. Your doctor should order the test after your surgery and before you start any chemotherapy or treatment. Here’s how the Colon Recurrence Score test works:
You have surgery to remove your tumor.
Your doctor orders the Colon Recurrence Score test.
The hospital sends a portion of the tumor sample to the Genomic Health laboratory.
The Genomic Health laboratory examines genes in your tumor.
Your doctor has access to your results typically within two weeks of the lab receiving the sample.
You and your doctor review your results to help decide on a treatment plan that fits your needs.
Note: It is important that your doctor requests the Colon Recurrence Score test before you start any treatment, since the test is intended to help you make treatment decisions. Speak with your healthcare team to understand more about the Colon Recurrence Score test results to help you make more-informed treatment decisions.
For more information about the test contact us.