Testing & Diagnosis

Test for PIK3CA Mutations in HR+, HER2- Metastatic Breast Cancer

Do you know your PIK3CA mutation status? Test, know, treat

There is likely no shortage of tests in your life right now. However, getting an in-depth look at your HR+, HER2- metastatic breast cancer (mBC) and whether you have the PIK3CA mutation will help you and your doctor make the right treatment decision for you. It starts with asking your doctor for testing now, so you can be ready at progression. Our doctor discussion guide can help. Remember: Test to see if you have a mutation. Know your mutation status. Be empowered to choose a treatment that goes right at it.*

*PIQRAY affects cancer cells, but can also affect healthy cells. Although PIQRAY has been studied in people with HR+, HER2- mBC, how PIQRAY works has only been demonstrated in laboratory studies.

 

 

 

Statistic 

About 40% of all people with HR+, HER2- metastatic breast cancer have a PIK3CA mutation.

If you test positive for a PIK3CA mutation and have progressed on or after hormone therapy, you and your doctor can consider PIQRAY® (alpelisib) tablets.

 

 

How PIK3CA mutation testing works:

To determine your PIK3CA mutation status, your doctor will test your breast cancer for an abnormal PIK3CA gene. Here’s how the process works.

 

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Who can request it: PIK3CA mutations can only be detected through a specific genomic test ordered by your doctor.

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How to request it: Even if you’ve had genetic testing done before, you’ll need to ask specifically for a PIK3CA mutation test.

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How the test is performed: PIK3CA mutations can be detected in tissue or plasma specimens.1 Your doctor will send a tissue or blood sample (to get a plasma specimen). If you’ve had a biopsy done before, ask your doctor if your tissue is still viable for PIK3CA gene mutation testing. If you do not, your doctor may start with a blood test. If no mutation is found in the plasma specimen, ask your doctor to test your tissue to confirm.

1 Piqray [prescribing information]. East Hanover, NJ: Novartis Pharmaceuticals Corp; 2020.

Request PIK3CA mutation testing to be ready

By understanding your specific cancer type and PIK3CA mutation status, you can be your own best advocate and an active member of your health care team. Start a conversation with your doctor about PIK3CA mutation testing to be prepared for your next treatment. Learn tips for talking to your doctor with our helpful guide.