Generations Lost: A Cancer Genetics Case Report

Area of Science:

• Medical Genetics
• Psychology
• Oncology

Background:

• Cancer genetic counseling often uncovers significant, unforeseen emotional and psychological issues for patients.
• The precounseling phase, including data gathering, can have profound impacts on counselees.

Purpose of the Study:

• To illustrate how precounseling actions in cancer genetic counseling can affect patients.
• To demonstrate the psychological impact of accessing a deceased parent's medical information on siblings.

Main Methods:

• A case report detailing the experience of two sisters undergoing cancer genetic counseling.
• Focus on the precounseling process, specifically obtaining a deceased mother's medical chart.

Main Results:

• The medical chart facilitated a reconnection with their deceased mother, who had breast cancer.
• Accessing the chart enhanced the sisters' understanding of their mother's health struggles.
• The case also highlights the counselor's professional development and insights gained.

Conclusions:

• The precounseling process in cancer genetic counseling can yield significant emotional benefits.
• Medical records of deceased relatives can aid in understanding family health history and personal grief.
• This case underscores the complex interplay between genetic information, family history, and psychological well-being.