The HER-2/neu status of breast cancer patients has become a very important and sought after test in recent years. The drug, Herceptin (Genentech Corp.), is effective in treatment of many breast cancer patients with HER2-neu gene amplification (greater than 2 gene copies per cell).

The PathVysion test is done via Fluorescence In Situ Hybridization (FISH), which is considered the gold standard in determining HER2 status. Other methods are available, however these invite subjectivity and can be difficult to interpret. The PathVysion test allows us to best aid the oncologist in making the decision whether or not to use Herceptin therapy.

Photo below shows HER-2/neu gene amplified cells using the PathVysion test.