Eva, I have no answer to your question...but, have you checked out the site below? They may explain some things we don't totally understand. Gonna go back and read some more myself....

~Kathy~

Here is a link that might be useful: Cancer risk screening

Try searching gene variant breast cancer genetic test

I found this...
They found that by examining which of these variants a woman carries, they could classify the likelihood that she will develop breast cancer as being low, moderate or high. They suggest that this could affect the age at which a woman is encouraged to start having mammograms, and how frequently she subsequently has them.

Sue

Eva, I googled "gene variant, cancer" and got a bunch of hits, all of which looked like they would cause a headache to try to read.

Use the quotes. It cuts down on the hits that are off topic.

Good luck.

Gosh, I really hate when the doctor or whoever tells you something like that without explaining it.

I'm not sure if they're the same thing, but maybe looking up info on "genetic variance" would help.

Here's one link with info and I've attached another that 'may' or may not be what you're after. Good luck.

http://www-ermm.cbcu.cam.ac.uk/0200491Xh.htm

Here is a link that might be useful: Breast Cancer Gene

That is my guess too. It may be that you have one of the genes that is known to cause breast cancer. It may mean that they just keep a closer eye on you.

Try this spelling Eva~~~gene variants.

Hi evatx, here ya go: "In roughly five to ten percent of breast cancer cases there is a family history of breast cancer i.e., hereditary and, thus, genetic factors play a role here. Alterations in the genes known as BRCAI and BRCAII are a major cause of familial breast cancer  these are responsible for roughly 25 percent of such cases."

In English it means you carry the gene(s) believed responsible for causing cancer and, potentially, you could develop cancer at an early age. Therefore, you should begin having mammograms at an earlier age, say 35 instead of 50.

As you said, the best news is that you don't have it now! Hugs and best of luck!

Have you considered calling the nurse back and asking her to explain it a little more? There's a good chance the nurse will say that the doctor will explain it in more detail. I would counter by reminding the nurse that she's the one who said it and that you want to be as informed as possible so that you are prepared when you see the doctor. And it will enable you to ask the appropiate questions.

I think indianakat may be on to something. The spelling of variant may bring up some easier explanations.

I too would consider calling the nurse back and asking.

Here's another article...

Here is a link that might be useful: Gene Variant

Thank you!!!! One of the problems was with my spelling - variants instead of variance. I've checked on every single suggestion you all have made and found so much useful info. Plus I called the nurse & got her just before the office closed. She said the dr. would call me in the morning so I wouldn't have to wait until next Wednesday for answers.

Again, thanks to all you wise KTers! I can always count on ya'll!

Eva, where are you going to the doc? Are you coming to Tyler?

Vannie, I will see Dr. Casas in Tyler at ETMC.