BRCA gene test for breast cancer

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Definition

By Mayo Clinic staff

Living With Cancer

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The BRCA gene test is a blood test that uses DNA analysis to identify harmful changes (mutations) in either one of the two breast cancer susceptibility genes — BRCA1 and BRCA2. Women who have inherited mutations in these genes face a much higher risk of developing breast cancer and ovarian cancer compared with the general population. The BRCA gene test is offered only to people who are likely to have an inherited mutation, based on personal or family history, or who have specific types of breast cancer. The BRCA gene test isn't routinely performed on women at average risk of breast and ovarian cancers.

Having a BRCA gene mutation is uncommon. Inherited BRCA gene mutations are responsible for about 5 percent of breast cancers and about 10 to 15 percent of ovarian cancers.

After having a BRCA gene test performed, you learn whether you carry an inherited BRCA gene mutation and receive an estimate of your personal risk of breast cancer and ovarian cancer. Genetic counseling is an important part of the BRCA gene test process.

Why it's done
References
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  3. BRCA-1 and BRCA-2. Lab Tests Online. http://www.labtestsonline.org/understanding/analytes/brca/multiprint.html. Accessed Dec. 1, 2010.
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  5. Pruthi S (expert opinion). Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minn. Dec. 9, 2010.
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  10. American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, et al. ACOG practice bulletin No. 103: Hereditary breast and ovarian cancer syndrome. Obstetrics & Gynecology. 2009;113:957.
  11. Peshkin BN, et al. Genetic counseling and psychosocial issues in women with an inherited predisposition to breast and ovarian cancer. http://www.uptodate.com/home/index.html. Accessed Dec. 1, 2010.
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  14. Berek JS, et al. Prophylactic and risk-reducing bilateral salpingo-oophorectomy. Obstetrics & Gynecology. 2010;116:733.
MY00322 Dec. 28, 2010

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