What questions should you ask an oncologist?

What questions should you ask an oncologist?

7 Key Questions to Ask Your Oncologist

• Where and when do you recommend getting a second opinion?
• What can I do to preserve my fertility?
• Is a clinical trial right for me?
• What should I do if I’m simply having trouble coming to grips with my diagnosis?
• What is the goal of my treatment?
• What will my treatment cost?

When should I be concerned about my breasts?

Talk to your doctor about your breast pain if you are worried, particularly, if you have a lump in the area of pain that does not go away after your period, redness, swelling, drainage from the area (signs of infection), nipple discharge, or if your breast pain is not clearly associated with your menstrual cycle, lasts …

What is HER2 status?

HER2 is a growth-promoting protein on the outside of all breast cells. Breast cancer cells with higher than normal levels of HER2 are called HER2-positive. These cancers tend to grow and spread faster than other breast cancers, but are much more likely to respond to treatment with drugs that target the HER2 protein.

Why do you see a breast surgeon?

In most cases, people see a breast surgeon when their primary care doctor or other specialist refers them to one. Doctors often refer their patients to a breast surgeon to diagnose and treat a suspicious breast lump or change in the shape or texture of breast tissue.

Where is HER2 found?

The HER2 receptor is a 1255 amino acid, 185 kD transmembrane glycoprotein located at the long arm of human chromosome 17 (17q12) [6]. HER2 is expressed in many tissues and its major role in these tissues is to facilitate excessive/uncontrolled cell growth and tumorigenesis [7–9].

What questions should I ask at my first oncology appointment?

Here’s what to ask during your first cancer-related visit with your oncologist:

• What is the purpose of this appointment?
• Which type of cancer do I have?
• What are the standard treatments for my condition?
• Why do you recommend this particular treatment?
• What are potential hazards and side effects?