I had an appt Tuesday at UCSF (University of California at San Francisco) Medical Center for genetic testing to determine whether or not I have either of the BRCA genes (BRCA1 or 2), those that carry breast and ovarian cancer. My OB/GYN recommended it, not that I needed the test for myself, but that my daughter needs the information. Although we're assured and reassured that genetic and health information cannot be used to deny future employment, promotions, raises, insurance, etc., and is currently protected by both state and federal law, we all know that hacking is an art form. If the Pentagon can be hacked, certainly Nikki McC's health records can also be hacked. She's a rising star and I don't want the possibility of inherited disease in her way if it can be managed or if it’s incorrect information. We decided I should be tested first – if I don’t carry the gene she’s no different than the rest of the population; if I do carry it she has a few decisions to make.

My Mom developed b/c at age 66, was in remission for 6 years, had a recurrence and died at 72. Stats show that those with either of the BRCA genes usually develop those cancers very early on - usually age 30 to 45. Since both my Mom and I were well over that age range, chances are I don't carry the gene(s). First time I ever heard that! Took a blood test and within a few weeks should have the results.

This is the surprise: we discussed my tonsil cancer and my family health history (no oral cancer). The geneticist said that my squamous cell carcinoma was most likely a skin cancer type, far less deadly than what she termed 'today’s defined forms of oral cancer.' I know that skin cancer takes its toll and didn't exactly enjoy hearing it dismissed that easily, but it makes me wonder. I didn't have node involvement and the prognosis was good from the start. Rads did what they were intended to do (so far). My checks are all fine but I'm only fifteen months out since my last rads.

Are there (for lack of a better term)'lesser' forms of oral cancer? Is my oral cancer in reality skin cancer? Is there a real difference between the two? I've read about oral cancer so much that I puked early on when I decided to research and overdid it, but I've never heard this before.

Dr. J? Liz? Anyone? Help!

Thanks!

Mimi

quote:

The geneticist said that my squamous cell carcinoma was most likely a skin cancer type, far less deadly than what she termed 'today’s defined forms of oral cancer.'

Are there (for lack of a better term)'lesser' forms of oral cancer? Is my oral cancer in reality skin cancer? Is there a real difference between the two?

Most oral cancer are malignant cells from the epithelium (skin on body or mucosa inside the mouth) - hence the term "Squamous Cell" carcinoma. The difference in prognosis is related to site which influences early detection and determines the lymphatic drainage that the cells use to metastasize. None is better or worse.

Hope that clarifies.

Best wishes

Vinod

I had a six month check-up this morning with my b/c onc and I posed the same questions to him. He kind of laughed when I reported that the tonsil cancer might have been skin cancer. His response? "If I were a betting man I'd bet it was tonsil cancer due to smoking for so many years." Also said that statistically I'd have had b/c at a much earlier age if I carried the BRCA gene, but agreed that he hoped I'd be considered for the testing.


Thanks, Dr.J!