breast cancer index test

Release time ：Dec-21,2024

The Breast Cancer Index (BCI) test is a molecular profiling tool designed to evaluate the risk of recurrence and responsiveness to endocrine therapy in patients with breast cancer. This test analyzes the expression patterns of specific genes within tumor cells, offering clinicians valuable insights into disease progression and therapeutic decision-making.

During the BCI test, the activity levels of several genes are assessed, encompassing biological processes such as cell proliferation, cell cycle regulation, and apoptosis. The composite evaluation of these gene activities yields an index score that indicates the sensitivity of the patient’s tumor cells to endocrine therapy and their likelihood of recurrence. Generally, a higher index score suggests a poorer response to endocrine therapy and a higher risk of recurrence.

With the outcomes of the BCI test, physicians can devise more precise, personalized treatment plans, thereby enhancing therapeutic efficacy and minimizing unnecessary side effects. For patients, knowledge of their BCI test results aids in a better comprehension of their disease status, strengthens communication with healthcare providers, and facilitates the development of the most appropriate treatment plan. Consequently, it is advisable for breast cancer patients to engage in discussions with their physicians about the necessity of undergoing the BCI test prior to treatment and to tailor their therapeutic strategies according to the results.