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Diagnostic insights to identify and manage breast cancer

About 1 in 3 people in the United States will develop cancer during their lifetime1, so it’s not uncommon to have many cancers in the same family. Less often, cancers in a family are strongly linked to an inherited gene mutation that is part of a hereditary cancer syndrome. Individuals who have a mutation in a cancer predisposition gene have a higher risk for developing certain types of cancer.

Screening

Hereditary Breast Cancer Panel

The Hereditary Breast Cancer Panel includes 16 genes associated primarily with hereditary breastand possibly othercancers. This can include, but is not limited to, cancers of the breast, colon, endometrium, stomach, urinary tract, ovary, pancreas, prostate, and other tissues. Individuals with a positive result (pathogenic or likely pathogenic variant detected) have an increased risk for developing certain cancers relative to that of the general population.

BRCA

Cancer can be more common in some families than others. Quest Diagnostics BRCA Panel Plus tests for genes predominantly associated with breast cancer, including BRCA1 and BRCA2. These tests are available for adults of all ages, but it’s best to talk with your doctor or genetic counselor to decide if genetic testing is right for you. Getting tested can also give important information to your family that can help family members understand their risk for cancer.

Diagnosis

The AmeriPath® national network of board-certified pathologists provides comprehensive pathology services utilizing state-of-the-art technologies including immunohistochemistry and molecular diagnostics.

We are an industry leader in breast tumor pathology expertise. Combined with our comprehensive test menu and advanced technology, our expertise ensures you receive accurate diagnostic, prognostic, and therapeutic information promptly.

Learn more at AmeriPath®: Anatomic Pathology Services.

Prognosis

Prosigna

The Prosigna® Breast Cancer Gene Signature Assay is a prognostic indicator for distant recurrence-free survival at 10 years in postmenopausal women. Prosigna should be used in conjunction with other clinicopathological factors.

Breast Cancer Tests

This information is provided for informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. A physician’s test selection and interpretation, diagnosis, and patient management decisions should be based on his/her education, clinical expertise, and assessment of the patient.

 

References

  1. American Cancer Society. Family cancer syndromes. Updated August 5, 2020. Accessed August 10, 2020. https://www.cancer.org/cancer/cancer-causes/genetics/family-cancer-syndromes.html