Genodermatoses - Opportunities for Early Detection and Cancer Prevention

This review describes the clinical features of the major adult-onset genodermatosis-associated hereditary cancer predisposition syndromes. Diagnosis of these conditions can be challenging due to a wide range of clinical features, varied presentations within families and the involvement of multiple medical specialities.

By emphasising the cutaneous and other non-malignant features, we aim to alert clinicians from all specialities to clues in the clinical history which should prompt consideration of a genodermatosis-associated hereditary cancer predisposition syndrome. In recognition of the move towards remote (telephone or video) appointments since the Covid-19 pandemic, we propose criteria which could be used by Cancer Genetics services to triage patients for in-person consultations in order to examine for signs of genodermatosis.

Although individually rare, familiarity with these conditions amongst genetic and non-genetic clinicians is important as early diagnosis provides an opportunity to implement risk-reduction measures prior to a cancer diagnosis.