Clinical Considerations of BRCA1 - and BRCA2 -Mutation Carriers: A Review

Abstract

Individuals who carry an inherited mutation in the breast cancer 1 ( BRCA1 ) and BRCA2 genes have a significant risk of developing breast and ovarian cancer over the course of their lifetime. As a result, there are important considerations for the clinician in the counseling, followup and management of mutation carriers. This review outlines salient aspects in the approach to patients at high risk of developing breast and ovarian cancer, including criteria for genetic testing, screening guidelines, surgical prophylaxis, and chemoprevention.