A review of inherited cancer susceptibility syndromes
Gina R Brown1, Madeline Simon, Chris Wentling
1Gina R. Brown is an associate professor at Wichita (Kan.) State University. Madeline Simon practices at Midwest Orthopaedics at Rush in Chicago, Ill. Chris Wentling is a hospitalist at Southwest Medical Center in Liberal, Kan. Danielle M. Spencer practices in trauma and general surgery at Stormont Vail Hospital in Topeka, Kan. Ashley N. Parker practices at Freeman Orthopaedics and Sports Medicine in Joplin, Mo. Corey A. Rogers is an assistant clinical professor at Wichita State University. The authors have disclosed no potential conflicts of interest, financial or otherwise.
Abstract:
Inherited cancer syndromes are caused by genetic mutations that place patients at an increased risk for developing cancer. Although most cancers are not caused by genetic inheritance, clinicians must understand these syndromes and be able to recognize their common characteristics. A thorough family history and identification of common patterns as well as specific clinical signs and symptoms can help with early recognition. This article describes symptoms of the more common cancer syndromes, including hereditary breast and ovarian cancer, Li-Fraumeni, Lynch, familial adenomatous polyposis, retinoblastoma, multiple endocrine neoplasia, and von Hippel-Lindau. Important patient education regarding genetic testing also is covered.
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