Genetic testing considerations in breast cancer patients

Abstract

Genetic testing is now feasible for a growing number of cancers. Although the implications for unaffected relatives have been widely described, the impact of the tests on affected individuals are often not recognized. We present and discuss four cases that highlight some of the issues - for example, feelings of guilt and anxiety, intrafamilial conflict, and support needs - that may arise in testing affected individuals. We offer some suggestions to aid in the approach to such testing.