HNPCC

Hi I recently had Surgery which identified Synchronous Endometroid Carcinoma of the Ovary and Uterus I am only 45 and had not gone through the Menopause. Can you tell me the likelyhood of this being this Genetic Mutation there is not any History of Ovarian cancer . Other cancers in the family are stomach , oesophogael. Kind regards Scoob

[Lisa Kessler, MS, CGC]

Dear Scoob,

You have a significant personal history of cancer, and I hope that this response can point you in the right direction. There are several different cancer syndromes that can run in families and can include multiple types of cancer.  

You may find it beneficial to talk with a genetic counselor especially one with experience in cancer risk assessment. You can find a local genetic counselor through the National Society of Genetic Counselors or through companies like mine, DNA Direct.    A genetic counselor would review your personal cancer history and family medical history in detail and determine if your cancers fit into a hereditary cancer syndrome. In other words, a genetic counselor would try to determine if there is a relationship among your diagnoses and your family history of cancer.   Knowing if there is a single cause to your diagnoses may help guide your cancer screening and provide you with information about risks for your family members. Genetic testing is available for many hereditary cancer syndromes and you can talk with a genetic counselor about the benefits and limitations of those tests.  DNA Direct offers genetic consultation with board-certified genetic counselors over the telephone and offers genetic testing when medically indicated as well.   Best wishes to you.

[mum61]

Dear Dr Kessler I have been referred for Genetic Profile and perhaps a test on my Colon and Breast also. Just waiting to hear regarding a date for Appointment.  Regards Scoob