Importance of family history taking and utility of panel test for oncology

Nov 03, 2022

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Clinical history: 58-year-old lady with a history of uterine cancer at the age of 57 and breast cancer at age 44. She was referred for the BRCA1/2 test due to early-onset breast cancer.  

Pretest GC:  

During pretest genetic counseling appointment, three-generation family history was taken. 

■ Paternal uncle with colon cancer,  

■ Paternal aunt with endometrial cancer,  

■ Paternal grandmother‘s siblings with gastric cancer. 

Genetic Test:  

After pre-test GC, the genetic counselor ordered for a DNA Onconex after consultation with doctor and patient due to family history of multiple cancers. Family and personal history was suspected for Lynch syndrome. 

Results: 

Positive for pathogenic mutations in: BRCA2, c.2979G>T; MSH2 c.366+1G>A 

 

 

Implications for Results:  

■ Surveillance to include for Lynch syndrome and BRCA mutations based on NCCN guidelines

■ Consider prophylactic oophorectomy due to increased risk for ovarian cancer

■ Genetic testing (targeted) to be offered to both daughters & surveillance based on results

■ Familial segregation

Challenges: 

limited evidence to know if there is an further increased risk of cancer in families with biallelic inheritance. 

Conclusion: 

A full family history taking can help in appropriate assessment of risk, in choosing the right genetic testing and surveillance for the family. 

Disclaimer: The information provided here is not exhaustive by any means. Always consult your doctor or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition, procedure, or treatment, whether it is a prescription medication, over-the-counter drug, vitamin, supplement, or herbal alternative.