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Hereditary Breast Cancer, Genetics, and Fertility Preservation

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Abstract

Purpose of Review

Fertility preservation is an important consideration in patients with hereditary breast cancer. Breast cancer mutation carriers may present with their cancers at younger ages and require more gonadotoxic treatments. The intent of this review is to discuss the data and research behind the particular fertility challenges mutation carriers may encounter.

Recent Findings

Limited data exist for the impact of hereditary breast cancer genes on fertility in breast cancer patients. Data is conflicting on baseline fertility of BRCA1/2 carriers, but breast cancer patients with these mutations become pregnant more often than noncarrier patients. Artificial reproductive technologies (ART) appear to be safe in this patient population, and these patients may benefit from preimplantation genetic testing.

Summary

Discussion of future fertility is important at time of diagnosis of a cancer mutation and breast cancer. Additional research is needed on mutation carriers to determine how their pathogenic variants affect fertility and risks of fertility preservation options.

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References

Papers of particular interest, published recently, have been highlighted as: • Of importance •• Of major importance

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  1. Holden Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of Iowa, 200 Hawkins Drive, Iowa City, IA, 52242, USA

    Kathryn J. Huber-Keener

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Huber-Keener, K.J. Hereditary Breast Cancer, Genetics, and Fertility Preservation. Curr Breast Cancer Rep 15, 329–336 (2023). https://doi.org/10.1007/s12609-023-00515-0

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