GeneticsGenetics

Hereditary Cancer Gene Panel - Focused

Normal Range
Negative for pathogenic variants
Sample Type
Whole Blood
Fasting
No
Unit
Result

Function

The Hereditary Cancer Gene Panel is a specialized genetic test that utilizes Next-Generation Sequencing (NGS) to look for mutations in a specific set of genes (e.g., BRCA1, BRCA2, MLH1, TP53) known to increase the risk of developing certain cancers. Unlike a broad panel, a 'focused' panel targets only the most clinically actionable genes related to a patient's personal or family history.

Why it is Ordered

This test is ordered for individuals who have a strong family history of cancer or who have been diagnosed with cancer at an unusually young age. The goals are:

  • To determine if a cancer is hereditary.
  • To guide surgical decisions (e.g., bilateral vs. unilateral mastectomy).
  • To prompt aggressive screening or prophylactic measures for relatives.
  • To qualify patients for specific targeted therapies (e.g., PARP inhibitors).

Associated Conditions

  • Hereditary Breast and Ovarian Cancer (HBOC): Linked to BRCA mutations.
  • Lynch Syndrome: Increased risk of colorectal and endometrial cancers.
  • Li-Fraumeni Syndrome: A rare disorder that greatly increases the risk of developing several types of cancer.

Check Your Result

Check Your Result

Interactive
Result

Enter your lab result to see where you stand compared to the standard reference range.

Why Context Matters

Genetic testing results are complex. A 'Variant of Uncertain Significance' (VUS) means a change was found, but it's unknown if it causes cancer. Second opinions from genetic counselors are vital to ensure that a VUS isn't misinterpreted as a 'positive' result, which could lead to unnecessary surgeries.

Lab ranges are statistical averages, not biological laws. "Normal" for a 20-year-old male isn't normal for a 60-year-old female.

Clinical References

Source-of-truth databases and clinical guidelines for Hereditary Cancer Gene Panel - Focused:

Research & Guidelines

Related Indicators

ALL Multiplex PCR 28 Translocations (MedGenome)

View Range

Clinical Exome Panel

View Range

BRAF V600 Mutation Analysis

View Range
DR

Medically Reviewed by Dr. Binoy Babu, MBBS

Board Certified Doctor • 10+ Years Clinical Experience

Dr. Babu is a practicing physician dedicated to empowering patients with clear, actionable medical information. He founded 2opi to bridge the gap between complex lab reports and patient understanding, ensuring everyone has access to a reliable second opinion.

Get Notified When Dr. Babu Is Available