Ki-67

Amanda79 5 days ago

2 replies
40 subscribers
156 views

Hi,

I was diagnosed Oct 24 with stage 1, grade 2 breast cancer with a KI-67 reading of 50%. Initially I was advised by NHS surgery which we eventually got clear margins followed by radiotherapy and tamoxifen.

i went private for surgery so was referred to a private oncologist who based on KI-67 offered chemo as well as radiotherapy and tamoxifen… I am 46 years old now (45 when diagnosed) and premenopausal.

I informed my oncologist that I didn’t want chemo based on my predict score of 2.4%, oncotype score of 17 with a reoccurrence rate of 5% and a benefit for chemo 1%, also I am stage 1, no lymph node involvement (5 were removed and all clear) and although ER+ I was ahEar2 Negative. So my oncologist called me today and said that as my KI-67 was taken from my biopsy she has requested it be completed on the 18mm tumor that was removed.

i am unsure what questions to ask moving forward to help me make an informed decision, as they are now saying that the ki-67 trumps all other tests but that doesn’t sit right with me…. I am hoping it comes back below the 30% but what questions do I ask if 50% or over

thanks in advance

Amanda79 5 days ago

Sorry I meant to add only 1 tumor showed on mammogram but once removed histology stated 2 tumors one of 18mm and one of 6mm, initially from the mammogram it showed tumor size of 13mm

Donna W - Macmillan 4 days ago in reply to Amanda79

Good afternoon Amanda79,

Welcome to our online community. I see you are a member of our Breast cancer forum. I hope you are finding it a helpful place to visit.

My name is Donna. I’m one of the nurses on the Macmillan cancer support line.

It sounds like the recent phone call from your Oncologist has stirred up a lot of worry and uncertainty for you.

As you are aware, the expression of Ki-67 is an indicator of how rapidly cells are dividing, if the cancer is faster growing and more aggressive. As such, measurement of Ki-67 can be used as a guide alongside other information to help make an informed choice about adjuvant treatment.

Making treatment decisions can be difficult and depend on many factors. It is important to have all the information you need prior to making an informed choice. Understanding the aim of the treatment can often be helpful as well as asking if other treatment options are available. Weighing up potential benefits against the risk of treatment related side effects.

We have some questions to ask your healthcare team which you may find helpful. They may not all be appropriate but you may find some ideas and questions to consider.

The decision-making process isn’t always easy. You should be actively involved and feel empowered to make the right decision for you.

Do not feel you are alone. We would encourage you to reach out to your breast care nurse if you have one and speak to family and friends. You may also feel supported by speaking to others in a similar situation.

I hope this information is helpful. Please know you can give us a call to talk things through further.

Best wishes,

Donna,
Cancer Information Nurse Specialist

You can also speak with the Macmillan Support Line team of experts. Phone free on 0808 808 0000 (7 days a week, 8am-8pm) or send us an email. 
Ref: DW/LA

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Ki-67