Improving Detection of Cancer Predisposition Syndromes in Pediatric Oncology

J Pediatr Hematol Oncol. 2021 Aug 1;43(6):e891-e896. doi: 10.1097/MPH.0000000000001987.

Abstract

Implementation and adherence to consensus statement criteria for referral of pediatric cancer patients for genetic evaluation are critical to identify the 5% to 10% with a genetic cancer predisposition syndrome. The authors implemented a Plan-Do-Study-Act quality improvement initiative aimed at increasing referrals of at-risk patients. Retrospective chart review was followed by educational intervention-with impact assessed over a 9-month prospective chart review. Referral rate improved >2-fold and there was an improvement in documented oncologic history to at least a third-degree relative. The integration of quality improvement can be an effective tool to improve the referral of patients with an elevated risk for a cancer predisposition syndrome.

MeSH terms

  • Child
  • Genetic Predisposition to Disease
  • Genetic Testing
  • Humans
  • Medical Oncology
  • Mutation
  • Neoplasms / genetics*
  • Retrospective Studies