PANELS
Cancer
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Overview
Our virtual panels include over 291 genes selected based on the most up-to-date literature, gene reviews and variant databases. Our whole genome approach offers cost-effectiveness by reducing the need for multiple targeted tests, and maximises diagnostic yield by allowing you to combine panels, select individual genes, and surface variants across all regions of the genome.
Genetics in Cancer
Genetic testing stands out as the most efficient method for identifying individuals who possess a genetic predisposition to develop cancer. Notably, carriers of the BRCA1 mutation face a 65% risk of developing breast cancer, while those afflicted with Lynch syndrome carry a substantial 78% lifetime risk of colorectal cancer.
Genetic diagnostics enable personalized assessment of cancer risk, offering invaluable insights for devising treatment plans and follow-up strategies for both affected and unaffected family members. This knowledge of inherited genetic anomalies proves indispensable in designing comprehensive healthcare approaches. Through regular screenings and proactive measures, the mortality rate of cancer in high-risk patients can be significantly diminished. A case in point is the utilization of colonoscopic screenings at three-year intervals, which slashes the risk of colorectal cancer by over 50%, preventing fatalities and reducing overall mortality by around 65% in Lynch syndrome families (PMID: 10784581).
Furthermore, the application of multi-gene panels expands the scope of genetic diagnostics, catering to patients with atypical presentations or family histories involving multiple cancer types. Beyond medical considerations, genetic diagnosis also offers valuable insights for family planning considerations, contributing to well-informed decision-making.
While genetic panel tests are highly valuable in hereditary cancer, it’s essential to interpret their results in the context of a patient’s clinical presentation and other diagnostic tests. We recommend working closely with genetic counselors and other specialists to ensure that genetic information is used effectively to diagnose, treat, and manage hereditary cancers.
For further information on tailoring treatment plans to an individual’s genetic profile, leading to improved outcomes and reduced side effects, please visit our pharmacogenomics page.
