FISH for HER2/neu: Comprehensive Genetic Analysis for Breast Cancer Treatment
Understanding FISH for HER2/neu Testing
FISH (Fluorescence In Situ Hybridization) for HER2/neu is a cutting-edge molecular diagnostic test that plays a critical role in breast cancer management. This sophisticated genetic analysis detects amplification of the HER2 (Human Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor 2) gene, providing essential information for personalized cancer treatment planning. The HER2/neu gene encodes a protein that promotes cell growth, and when overexpressed due to gene amplification, it can drive aggressive cancer progression.
What Does the FISH for HER2/neu Test Measure?
The FISH for HER2/neu test specifically detects:
- HER2 gene amplification in breast cancer cells
- Gene copy number variations
- Chromosome 17 abnormalities
- HER2-to-chromosome 17 centromere ratio
This advanced cytogenetic technique uses fluorescent DNA probes that bind to specific regions of the HER2 gene and chromosome 17. By counting the number of fluorescent signals under a specialized microscope, pathologists can determine whether HER2 gene amplification is present, which directly correlates with HER2 protein overexpression.
Who Should Consider FISH for HER2/neu Testing?
Clinical Indications and Patient Profiles
FISH for HER2/neu testing is recommended for:
- Newly diagnosed breast cancer patients
- Patients with invasive breast carcinoma
- Individuals with equivocal HER2 immunohistochemistry results
- Patients considering targeted HER2 therapy
- Those with recurrent or metastatic breast cancer
- Patients with aggressive tumor characteristics
Symptoms and Clinical Scenarios
This test is particularly important for patients presenting with:
- Rapidly growing breast tumors
- High-grade invasive ductal carcinoma
- Lymph node-positive breast cancer
- Triple-negative breast cancer evaluation
- Metastatic breast cancer requiring treatment optimization
Benefits of FISH for HER2/neu Testing
Clinical Advantages and Patient Outcomes
Undergoing FISH for HER2/neu testing offers numerous benefits:
- Precision Treatment Planning: Identifies patients who will benefit from targeted HER2 therapies
- Improved Survival Rates: HER2-positive patients receiving targeted therapy show significantly better outcomes
- Reduced Treatment Toxicity: Avoids unnecessary chemotherapy in HER2-negative patients
- Accurate Prognostic Information: Provides valuable insights into disease aggressiveness
- Therapeutic Monitoring: Helps assess treatment response and resistance patterns
- Standardized Results: Offers objective, reproducible genetic data
Understanding Your FISH for HER2/neu Results
Interpretation Guidelines
Your FISH for HER2/neu results will fall into one of three categories:
HER2-Positive Results
Indicates HER2 gene amplification, suggesting:
- High likelihood of responding to HER2-targeted therapies
- Potential for more aggressive tumor behavior
- Benefit from drugs like trastuzumab, pertuzumab, or ado-trastuzumab emtansine
HER2-Negative Results
Shows no evidence of HER2 gene amplification, indicating:
- HER2-targeted therapies are unlikely to be effective
- Alternative treatment strategies should be considered
- Focus on hormone therapy or chemotherapy based on other markers
Equivocal Results
Borderline findings that may require:
- Repeat testing with additional tissue samples
- Correlation with immunohistochemistry results
- Clinical judgment based on overall patient presentation
Test Information and Pricing
| Test Parameter | Details |
|---|---|
| Test Name | FISH for HER2/neu |
| Discount Price | $350 USD |
| Regular Price | $450 USD |
| Turnaround Time | 10-12 days |
| Sample Type | Formalin fixed paraffin embedded tissue block with 10% tumor tissue |
| Specialty | Oncology Cytogenetics |
| Method | Fluorescence In Situ Hybridization (FISH) |
Sample Requirements and Preparation
For accurate FISH for HER2/neu testing, please ensure:
- Submit formalin fixed paraffin embedded tissue block
- Ship at room temperature with proper packaging
- Tissue block must contain minimum 10% tumor tissue
- Complete Chromosome & FISH analysis Requisition Form (Form 17)
- Include relevant clinical information and pathology reports
Nationwide Accessibility
We have branches across the United States, making FISH for HER2/neu testing easily accessible to patients nationwide. Our state-of-the-art facilities are located in major metropolitan areas including:
- New York City and surrounding areas
- Los Angeles and Southern California
- Chicago and the Midwest region
- Houston and Texas metropolitan areas
- Phoenix and Arizona locations
- Philadelphia and Northeast regions
Take Action for Your Breast Cancer Care
Don’t leave your breast cancer treatment to chance. FISH for HER2/neu testing provides the critical genetic information needed to make informed treatment decisions. Our experienced oncology team and advanced cytogenetics laboratory ensure accurate, reliable results that can significantly impact your treatment outcomes.
Ready to schedule your FISH for HER2/neu test? Contact our genetic specialists today at +1(267) 388-9828 or book your appointment online. Take the first step toward personalized breast cancer care with comprehensive genetic analysis from General Genetics Corporation.
Our dedicated patient care coordinators are available to answer your questions, discuss insurance coverage, and help you understand the testing process. With rapid 10-12 day turnaround times and competitive pricing at $350 USD, we make advanced genetic testing accessible when you need it most.
