BRCA susceptibility genes--a review of current conservative management of BRCA mutation carriers

Three options for the management of a patient carrying a deleterious mutation in the BRCA gene exist: close surveillance, chemoprevention and prophylactic surgical procedures. We aimed at reviewing the current knowledge on the conservative management of patients who are found to be carriers of the BRCA susceptibility genes. Recent literature in the English language was reviewed for publications containing the conservative management of BRCA mutation-carriers. Close surveillance for the breasts includes breast self-examination, clinical examination by a specialist and breast imaging techniques--mammography and magnetic resonance imaging. Ovarian surveillance includes pelvic examination, transvaginal ultrasonography and blood CA-125 measurements. Age at beginning of examinations and their frequency are discussed. Chemoprevention includes tamoxifen and oral contraceptives for breast and ovarian cancer prevention, respectively.