Multigene Panel Testing for Hereditary Cancer and Genetic Counseling

Area of Science:

• Genomic Medicine
• Oncology
• Genetic Counseling

Background:

• Advancements in sequencing technology and understanding of cancer's genomic underpinnings are driving the adoption of multi-gene panel testing.
• Hereditary cancer testing is increasingly utilized in clinical practice.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the clinical application of multi-gene panel testing for hereditary cancer.
• To discuss pre- and post-testing considerations.
• To summarize genetic counseling strategies based on panel testing outcomes.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of multi-gene panel testing applications.
• Analysis of pre- and post-testing counseling protocols.
• Introduction of a specific multi-gene panel developed at Seoul National University Hospital.

Main Results:

• Multi-gene panel testing offers a comprehensive approach to identifying hereditary cancer risks.
• Effective pre- and post-test counseling is crucial for patient understanding and management.
• The chapter details practical considerations for implementing panel testing in clinical settings.

Conclusions:

• Multi-gene panel testing is a valuable tool in hereditary cancer management.
• Integrating genetic counseling enhances the clinical utility of panel testing.
• The development of specific panels, like the one from Seoul National University Hospital, supports personalized cancer risk assessment.