Breast cancer, PD-L1 marker tests in Bangkok?

[Speedhump]

Hi guys,

 

This test examines the genetic marker PD-L1, and is offered as part of an expensive package called Oncomine Plus at Bumrungrad hospital, which looks at 517 different genes. Would anyone know if it's available elsewhere in a smaller, cheaper package, or even better as a standalone?

 

I know that any other hospital will be cheaper anyway, no need to mention that! ????  I will do some groundwork but with so many hospitals it's hard for someone with no experience of BKK healthcare to know where to start concerning oncology.

 

I understand that it's useful to look at other markers for general purposes (picking up things which could be important, but unrelated to the cancer), but for someone with little available money whose insurers may baulk at the cost of such a general package, it would be very useful to know.

 

Thanks kindly.

[Sheryl]

PD-L is not  tumor marker and  neither are the other tests in the Oncomine Plus package. These are genetic sequencing tests that exaime for genetic mutations/variations. I have not heard of this package being employed for breast cancer. It is usually used in small cell lung cancer.

 

Why are you thinking of having PD-L test done, has an oncologist recommended it? Normally done only for invasive BC where specific linked treatments are being considered.  In which case the oncologist tecommending it should certainly be able to advise where to have it done.

 

There are several different types of PD-L assay and certainly no reason to have the NSG panel you mention done for this purpose. As to where to get it (assuming it is indicated in your specific case) the place to start is with an oncologist in a very large teaching hospital (bring with you records and recommendation from your home country oncologist if that is who has advised you to have this test).

 

If that hospital cannot do the test the  oncologist should  know where to send the spcimen. 

 

Do not expect to find this on any listing of lab tests nor to get useful info by email. You need to consult an oncologist on staff.

 

In terms of where to consult an oncologist with relevant expertise I would start here

 

https://chulalongkornhospital.go.th/kcmh/en/ec/queen-sirikit-centre-for-breast-cancer/

 

You will need to go in person. It is a government hospital affiluated with a leading medical achool.