As with all genomic tests, the DCIS Score® test is performed on the tumor tissue that’s already been removed from your breast during your lumpectomy or biopsy.
Once it has arrived at the Exact Sciences lab,* the tissue undergoes the DCIS Score test to measure the activity of the cancer-related genes that are in your tumor tissue. The activity of these genes can provide important information about how your specific tumor might behave in the future, including:
- How likely your tumor is to return
- How likely your tumor is to spread to other parts of your body
- How likely your tumor may be to respond to radiation therapy
Has your doctor ordered a genomic test for you? This short video can help you understand how the results can help you with your cancer treatment decision.
Has your doctor ordered a genomic test for you?
This short video can help you understand how the results can help you with your cancer treatment decision.
Talking to your doctor about the Oncotype DX DCIS Score® test
Like other lab tests, the breast DCIS Score test must be ordered by a licensed healthcare provider (like your doctor). However, the decision about whether you should have the DCIS Score test is one that you and your doctor should make together.
You may want to ask your doctor the following questions:
- What are the benefits of each treatment option? What are the drawbacks/side effects of each one?
- I understand that my breast cancer is non-invasive DCIS (anatomic stage 0). What are the chances of my cancer coming back after surgery as DCIS or invasive breast cancer?
- What are my treatment options? What do you suggest for me and why?
- What are the benefits of each treatment option? What are the drawbacks/side effects of each one?
- How long do side effects of each treatment option last? Do they go away once treatment is complete?
- Is it OK to wait a few weeks to consider my treatment plan options before I have to make a decision about treatment?
- Am I a candidate for the DCIS Score test?
- If I am a candidate for the DCIS Score test, how could we use the test results to develop my treatment plan?
- How can I get a copy of my pathology report and my DCIS Score results?
Learn how the DCIS Score test can help individualize your treatment
In their own words: Stories from patients with non-invasive DCIS breast cancer
See FAQs and videos about the DCIS Score test
$0
financial responsibility for DCIS Score test when Medicare fee-for-service (FFS) coverage criteria are met
Medicare Advantage, which is provided by commercial insurance companies, may have different financial responsibility compared to Medicare FFS.
Learn about costs, coverage, and how Exact Sciences can help
*Testing performed at an Exact Sciences clinical lab in Redwood City, CA (Genomic Health, Inc.).