Genomic Health Announces Expansion of Oncotype DX(R) Breast Cancer Test to Include Quantitative Estrogen Receptor (ER) and Progesterone Receptor (...( Study Published in the Journal of...)

Study Published in the Journal of Clinical Oncology Proves Accurate Measurement of ER and PR Status Using Quantitative Reverse-Transcriptase

Polymerase Chain Reaction (RT-PCR)

REDWOOD CITY, Calif., June 2 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Genomic Health, Inc. (Nasdaq: GHDX) today announced that the Journal of Clinical Oncology (JCO) published results of a study confirming RT-PCR by Oncotype DX can deliver quantitative gene expression levels for assessing estrogen receptor (ER) and progesterone receptor (PR) status, which are critical factors in determining the use and benefit of hormonal therapy for the treatment of breast cancer. Based on these results, Genomic Health is now providing quantitative ER and PR scores to physicians and patients in addition to the Recurrence Score(TM) result provided in the Oncotype DX(R) report.

Unlike traditional methodologies that provide either a positive or negative result, or a semi-quantitative result, RT-PCR by Oncotype DX generates a specific score across a continuous range of expression which allows physicians to factor the quantitative level of ER and PR gene expression into their treatment planning.

"Every breast tumor expresses the estrogen receptor gene at a specific level and, similar to other diagnostic measures, the ability to more accurately pinpoint that level increases the confidence in a diagnosis and treatment plan," said Sandra Swain, M.D., Medical Director, Washington Cancer Institute, Washington Hospital Center. "Having quantitative ER and PR scores provides added certainty in confirming expression levels of these important genes in predicting how likely a patient is to benefit from hormonal therapy."

This study published in JCO was origina
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