Clinical cancer genetics. Part 2: Breast

Am J Clin Oncol. 2014 Feb;37(1):86-9. doi: 10.1097/COC.0b013e31823fe657.

Abstract

Since the discovery of proven genetic mutations which predispose people to breast cancer along with the routine availability of genetic testing for such mutations, a number of issues have surfaced regarding potential methods of breast cancer diagnosis, surveillance, treatment, and risk reduction. Many of these issues pertain to the practice of radiation oncology and can affect decisions on management. This article aims to describe some of the more salient features of individuals at high genetic risk for breast developing cancer along with aspects of their tumor biology, clinical natural history, and how the radiation oncologist may address these challenges.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Breast Neoplasms / diagnosis
  • Breast Neoplasms / epidemiology
  • Breast Neoplasms / genetics*
  • Breast Neoplasms / prevention & control
  • Breast Neoplasms, Male / genetics
  • Female
  • Genes, BRCA1*
  • Genes, BRCA2*
  • Genetic Predisposition to Disease
  • Heterozygote
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Mastectomy / methods
  • Mutation*
  • Neoplasms, Second Primary / etiology
  • Primary Prevention / methods
  • Radiotherapy, Adjuvant / adverse effects
  • Risk Assessment
  • Risk Factors
  • United States / epidemiology