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Multigene Cancer Panels: Implications for Pre- and Post-test Genetic Counseling

  • Counseling and Testing (C Reiser and C Walton, Section Editors)
  • Published:
Current Genetic Medicine Reports Aims and scope Submit manuscript

Abstract

Purpose of Review

The availability of multigene cancer panel testing (MCPT) has revolutionized the care of individuals and families at risk for hereditary cancer. This review discusses fundamental components of genetic counseling, test selection, result interpretation, and follow-up related to MCPT.

Recent Findings

Routine use of MCPT increases the diagnostic yield for major hereditary cancers such as breast, ovarian, and colon, with the identification of pathogenic variants in high- and moderate-penetrance genes. In addition, the larger the panel, the more likely one or more variants of uncertain significance will be identified. Furthermore, although index cases who test negative after multigene panel testing may derive some reassurance about hereditary risk, assessment and management based on personal and family history are the keys.

Summary

Given the complexity of MCPT, pre- and post-test genetic counseling approaches have been adapted to optimize the delivery of information and support to patients and their families.

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Acknowledgments

The authors are grateful to Savannah Binion, BA, for assistance with manuscript preparation and editing.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. ProHealth Care, Milwaukee, WI, USA

    Margo C. Grady

  2. MedStar Georgetown University Hospital, Georgetown Lombardi Comprehensive Cancer Center, Washington, DC, USA

    Kavitha A. Kolla

  3. Jess and Mildred Fisher Center for Hereditary Cancer and Clinical Genomics Research, Georgetown Lombardi Comprehensive Cancer Center, Washington, DC, USA

    Kavitha A. Kolla & Beth N. Peshkin

  4. Department of Oncology, Georgetown University Medical Center, Washington, DC, USA

    Beth N. Peshkin

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  1. Margo C. Grady
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  2. Kavitha A. Kolla
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  3. Beth N. Peshkin
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Correspondence to Beth N. Peshkin.

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Ms. Kolla declares no conflicts of interest.

Ms. Grady reports consulting fees from ActX (Seattle, WA).

Ms. Peshkin reports consulting fees from Clear Genetics, Inc. (San Francisco, CA).

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Grady, M.C., Kolla, K.A. & Peshkin, B.N. Multigene Cancer Panels: Implications for Pre- and Post-test Genetic Counseling. Curr Genet Med Rep 7, 169–179 (2019). https://doi.org/10.1007/s40142-019-00173-8

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