Genetic testing is all the rage for people interested in learning more about their family heritage, but genetic testing for breast cancer takes the concept to a higher level. Peter Beitsch, MD, at Dallas Surgical Group has specialized in genetic testing for more than 20 years, providing testing and accurately interpreting the results so that he can assess your risk for breast cancer, determine how your body will respond to treatments, and help you prevent the disease. If you’re interested in genetic testing for breast cancer, call the office in Dallas or book an appointment online.
Only 10% of women diagnosed with breast cancer inherit the disease, yet your family history is still a strong indicator of your risk for carrying a genetic mutation.
You may benefit from genetic testing if any of the following describes your family history:
If genetic testing shows your chances of developing breast cancer are higher than normal, you can take steps to prevent cancer or have your health closely monitored.
Dr. Beitsch offers specialized services for women with a high risk of breast cancer, including:
Dr. Beitsch also offers counseling surrounding your genetic testing, taking extensive time to accurately explain your test results and give you the information needed to decide your next step.
Genetic tests are usually done using a sample of your saliva rarely blood is needed). After your samples are collected, they’re tested for mutations in BRCA ½ as well as more than 30 other genes associated with breast cancer as well as many other genes associated with other cancers
If either BRCA gene is mutated:
If you have a BRCA mutation, you also have a higher risk of developing ovarian, fallopian tube, peritoneal cancers, pancreatic cancer and melanoma
Other genes carry different levels of breast cancer (and other cancer) risk. Dr. Beitsch will tailor the discussion to your particular situation.
Dr. Beitsch is a principal investigator for the iGAP Registry™, a nationwide database with information about the genetic mutations in women with a high risk for breast cancer. In addition to actively participating in genetic studies, Dr. Beitsch has access to a broad range of information about genetic testing and optimal breast cancer treatment based on your genes.
If you’re interested in genetic testing and risk assessment for breast cancer, call the Dallas Surgical Group or schedule an appointment online.
Dr. Beitsch has special expertise in performing genomic testing that reveals information other than your risk for breast cancer. He does tests that show how well your body metabolizes different medications and whether your body will respond to radiation or chemotherapy.
He runs genomic tests in women diagnosed with ductal carcinoma in situ that help predict how rapidly the cancer may grow and spread. Genomic testing can also show your risk for recurring cancer following your treatment.
With the depth of information provided by genomic testing, your breast cancer treatment can be customized and dosed to best fit your body.