What biomarker tests should I ask for with breast cancer

Q: What biomarker tests should I ask for with breast cancer

According to the NCCN Breast Cancer Guidelines 2023, there are three essential biomarker tests that should be performed on all newly diagnosed invasive breast cancers: 1. Hormone Receptor Status: - Estrogen Receptor ER - Progesterone Receptor PR These tests determine if hormonal therapy might be effective. 2. HER2 Status Testing: The American Society of Clinical Oncology ASCO guidelines specifically recommend that all invasive breast cancers must be tested for HER2 because: - It helps determine

Breast CancerOctober 15, 2025Navis AI

Ask Navis about your situation

This answer is general. Get one about your specific case. No signup, answered right here.

or Upload your records for answers about your actual case

For informational purposes only

This answer was generated by AI grounded in NCCN guidelines and published medical literature. It is not medical advice. Always consult your oncologist or care team before making treatment decisions.

Sources & medical oversight

Grounded in NCCN Guidelines for Patients: Invasive Breast Cancer — the same guidelines oncologists use.
Built by OpenCancer’s team of physician-scientists and cancer survivors.
Last updated October 15, 2025. Informational only — not a substitute for your oncology team.

According to the NCCN Breast Cancer Guidelines (2023), there are three essential biomarker tests that should be performed on all newly diagnosed invasive breast cancers:

Hormone Receptor Status:

Estrogen Receptor (ER)
Progesterone Receptor (PR) These tests determine if hormonal therapy might be effective.

HER2 Status Testing: The American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO) guidelines specifically recommend that all invasive breast cancers must be tested for HER2 because:

It helps determine if HER2-targeted therapies would be beneficial
It can be tested through IHC (immunohistochemistry) and/or FISH testing

Additional Testing: The National Cancer Institute (NCI) notes that in certain cases, your doctor may recommend:

Ki-67 (measures tumor cell growth rate)
Genomic tests (like Oncotype DX, MammaPrint) for early-stage hormone receptor-positive cancers to help guide treatment decisions

Important notes:

These tests should be done on the initial biopsy or surgery specimen
Results typically take 1-2 weeks
Testing should be performed in an accredited laboratory

Always discuss with your healthcare team which tests are appropriate for your specific situation, as they may recommend additional testing based on your individual case. Your doctor can explain how the results will influence your treatment options.

Ask Navis about your case

That answer is general. Ask about your specific situation. No signup, answered right here.

or Upload your records for answers about your actual case

Facing this with someone you love?

Keep the whole picture in one private place: records, a plain-language summary of where things stand, questions, and the people helping. Navis keeps it up to date so no one has to re-explain the story. Free, and only the people you invite can ever see it.

Start a care circle →