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What is the test?
The MammaPrint™ test looks at the activity of a large number of genes in a sample of breast cancer. These genes form a genetic signature which can be examined by special techniques in the laboratory.
How does the test work?
The breast cancer removed during your operation will automatically be stored in the hospital or clinic laboratory.
If you and your doctor decide that MammaPrint™ would be useful for you, a small sample of the cancer can then be taken and immersed in special sterilising fluid which preserves the sample. It is then sent to the laboratory of our partners, Agendia, in Amsterdam. The laboratory team analyses the activity of 70 of the genes that make up the genetic signature and then issues a report.
What do the results mean?
The report will be explained to you by your doctor. It classifies the genetic signature into one of two groups.
1. In the first group the signature indicates that the risk of the breast cancer returning is low.
2. In the second group the signature indicates that the risk of the breast cancer returning at some stage is significant.
The result of the MammaPrint™ test is not the only piece of information to determine whether further treatment after surgery is recommended. Your doctor will interpret the result and discuss with you within the complete clinical context.
How accurate are the results?
The MammaPrint™ result is very accurate regarding whether the breast cancer falls into group 1 or group 2.
It is essential that the MammaPrint™ result is combined with all other important information before a final decision about treatment is taken.
