HNPCC
Description
The HNPCC gene, also known as Lynch syndrome, is a genetic mutation that significantly increases the risk of developing various cancers, primarily colorectal cancer. Individuals with HNPCC inherit faulty DNA mismatch repair (MMR) genes, leading to an inability to correct errors during DNA replication. This results in a higher accumulation of mutations, accelerating the development of cancer. The gene can be inherited from either parent, and the probability of inheriting the mutation varies depending on family history.
Associated Diseases
- Colorectal cancer
- Endometrial cancer
- Stomach cancer
- Ovarian cancer
- Urinary tract cancer
- Small bowel cancer
- Hepatobiliary cancer
- Pancreatic cancer
- Brain cancer
- Skin cancer (melanoma)
- Breast cancer
- Bile duct cancer
Did you know?
HNPCC accounts for approximately 3-5% of all colorectal cancers.
