Genetic testing in women with breast cancer: implications for treatment. Issue 11 (2nd November 2017)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Paterson, Robin; Phillips, Kelly-Anne
• Is Part Of: Expert review of anticancer therapy. Volume 17:Issue 11(2017)
• Page Start: 991
• Page End: 1002
• Publication Date: 2017-11-02
• Subjects: BRCA1 -- BRCA2 -- breast cancer -- chemotherapy -- genetic testing -- hereditary -- surgery -- treatment; Cancer -- Treatment -- Periodicals; 616.99406
• DOI: 10.1080/14737140.2017.1374175
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1473-7140

Abstract

ABSTRACT: Introduction : Mutations in either the BRCA1 or BRCA2 genes are responsible for approximately 42, 000 cases of breast cancer annually. Identifying these germline mutations in a woman with breast cancer is important because it can influence her immediate and long-term management and has important implications for other family members. Areas covered : This review highlights how treatment-focussed genetic testing for BRCA1 and BRCA2 mutations can potentially influence cancer treatment and secondary prevention decisions in women with breast cancer. Expert commentary : Testing women with breast cancer for BRCA1 and BRCA2 germline mutations has the potential to decrease cancer burden and improve cancer outcomes. It can help optimise surgical and systemic therapy approaches. Clinicians should actively consider whether genetic testing is appropriate for each woman with breast cancer, and if so should instigate it early in the treatment trajectory when it can most influence cancer care.