Multigene testing for hereditary cancer: When, why, and how

Abstract

Multigene testing is a complicated area, with advantages and disadvantages of testing for hereditary cancer syndromes. Currently, NCCN does not endorse routing multiplex testing outside of a research setting, and/or intensive genetic counseling regarding risks and benefits. The 2017 NCCN Clinical Practice Guidelines in Oncology for Genetic/Familial High-Risk Assessment: Breast and Ovarian and Colorectal provide suggestions for mutation carriers identified by panel tests.