Dr. Debu Tripathy on Molecular Predictors of Outcome in Breast Cancer

Debu Tripathy, MD, professor of Medicine, chair, Department of Breast Medical Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, discusses molecular predictors of outcome for patients with ER-positive breast cancer.

A recent analysis found potential genes and gene patterns that may predict breast cancer recurrence within the first 5 years of treatment, explains Tripathy.

Currently, the Oncotype DX test is used to predict recurrence, but specific pathways may help oncologists understand recurrence risk better, says Tripathy. It is too early to apply this analysis, as results will have to be validated. However, it is a step in the right direction, he says.