Thursday 4 June 2015

Recommendations for individuals who are BRCA1/2 +ve

It is a well known fact that breast cancer may be due to a genetic mutation of the BRCA1 and 2 gene. Women who have a family history of persons having breast cancer at a relatively young age should have the gene mutation tested to see if they are at risk of breast cancer. It is also known that the risk of ovarian cancer is high with a positive BRCA1/2 mutations. The link between ovarian and breast cancer is well established.

Women with BRCA1 or 2 mutations should have clinical breast examinations every 6 to 12 months and annual breast MRI screening from the age of 25 or earlier depending on family history. At 30, mammograms should be added and alternated with MRIs every 6 months until 75 years. Prophylactic bilateral mastectomy should be discussed as it decreases the incidence by more than 90%.

Twice yearly screening for ovarian cancer by ultrasound and CA125 should begin at 30 years or earlier, and if completed family, removal of both tubes and ovaries is indicated at 35 years of age to prevent ovarian cancer.

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