Women age 18 years and older with breast cancer who have previously taken, currently taking or scheduled to begin therapy with either Lapatinib ( tykerb ) or Trastuzumab ( herceptin ) are sought for participation in a research study comparing the effects of Lapatinib and Trastuzumab on the heart. This study is being conducted by the Cardiology Division and the Radiology Department of the Massachusetts General Hospital.

Eligible patients will undergo imaging with Positron Emission Tomography ( PET scan )
to study the changes in the function of the heart. A PET scan is similar to a CT scan, only it uses an injected radioactive substance, rather than X-rays, to take a picture of the heart. This study include some exposure to radiation, therefore women able to become pregnant must have a pregnancy test immediately prior to participation.

In all, the study requires 2-3 visits at 0, 1, 10 weeks. All tests and procedures associated with this research will be done at no cost to you/your patient or your health insurer. Enrolled patients will be compensated $100 per visit (a total of up to $300 ) plus $8 per visit for transportation /parking.

If you are interested or have any questions, please contact Dr. Ahmed Tawakol or one of his associates at atawakol@partners.org or 617-643-0246.

Institution  –  MGH - Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA

Principal Investigator  – Ahmed Tawakol, MD

  

For further information about enrolling a patient in this trial, contact the person below.

Name  – Amparo Figueroa, MD

Phone  – 617-643-0246