Radiotherapy and genetic predisposition to breast cancer

Cancer genetics is becoming increasingly integrated into oncological care; particularly in breast cancer management. The recognition of monogenic breast cancer predisposition syndromes, such as BRCA, is critical as there is also a risk of other cancers in addition to a markedly elevated risk of contralateral breast cancer. In individuals with breast cancer due to some predisposition genes, radiation should be avoided, e.g. the ATM and TP53 genes, but there is still controversy as to whether radiation should be used in BRCA1/2 mutation carriers and more follow-up is needed. There are some radiation-sensitive genetic conditions where, if breast cancer occurs (as it may occur in any individual, not necessarily due to an increased risk associated with the condition), radiation should be avoided. These conditions are often associated with dysmorphic features. If such features are noticed then the advice of a geneticist should be sought urgently prior to giving radiation.