Should all patients undergoing genetic testing for hereditary breast cancer syndromes be offered a multigene panel?

We aim to demonstrate why multigene panel testing (MGPT) is the superior testing option for individuals undergoing hereditary cancer genetic testing. We will outline the clinical benefits and possible limitations of MGPT for individuals at risk for a hereditary cancer syndrome.

The use of MGPT increases the identification of individuals with hereditary cancer syndromes. Recent studies continue to prove that MGPT is a superior option to single gene/or syndrome testing. MGPT is a cost-effective testing approach for those meeting criteria for genetic testing. Individuals interested in MGPT should understand the benefits and limitations of this approach, including an increase in variant identification and possible incidental findings. MGPT also increases the number of individuals who would benefit from cascade testing.

MGPT should be considered as the standard approach to hereditary cancer genetic testing as opposed to single gene or single syndrome testing. MGPT identifies a larger proportion of individuals with a hereditary cancer syndrome and leads to better management and improved uptake of cascade testing.