Client Story
Presentation
Due to substantial family history of breast and ovarian cancer, the patient had previously undergone a preventative bilateral mastectomy to reduce her breast cancer risk but had not yet made decision regarding reducing her ovarian cancer risk.
Serial blood testing had demonstrated a rising tumor marker, which can be an indicator of ovarian cancer. Despite this concerning finding, the patient was delaying further evaluation and management.
PHM Actions
PHM identified a top expert surgeon in London and arranged a multi-day visit, including labs, ultrasound, CT scan and consultation with the surgeon. Fortunately, cancer was not identified during her evaluation, but the visit did result in a plan to proceed with surgery to remove ovaries given family history and high risk nature.
PHM further supported care by creating a consultation question list exploring potential next steps and to clarify best treatment options based on latest lab results and imaging.
PHM has also identified centers of excellence in the United States that specialize in long term management of BRCA positive patients. The patient is considering this option as well.
Outcome
This patient’s BRCA mutation significantly elevates the risk of ovarian cancer, up to 44%. Before our engagement, she was avoidant to this concerning possibility.
70-80% of ovarian cancer patients are stage III or IV at the time of diagnosis, with 5-year survival rates of 65% and 35%, respectively. If caught early, the 5-year survival rate for ovarian cancer can be as high as 95%.
We are hopeful that no cancer will be found at the time of her upcoming surgery, but even if cancer is present, PHM will continue to guide, and our involvement has already increased her chances of cure.
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