A REVIEW OF HEREDITARY BREAST-CANCER - FROM SCREENING TO RISK FACTOR MODIFICATION

The identification of genetic mutations thought to be directly respons ible for the development of breast cancer represents a major advance i n our understanding of this disease. Mutations in BRCA1 and BRCA2 are thought to be responsible for the majority of inherited breast cancer. Although these mutations account for approximately 5% of breast cance r cases, the identification of these genes will have a profound impact on the way patients and their physicians view breast cancer risk. Gen etic testing for BRCA1 and BRCA2 mutations is already available. Inter preting results of genetic tests for these mutations is problematic an d the clinical management of women carrying these gene mutations is fa r from straightforward. The purpose of this paper is to review recent developments in the genetic aspects of breast cancer, including geneti c testing, to critically review risk factor modification, and to discu ss screening and potential prophylactic measures. (C) 1997 by Excerpta Medica, Inc.