How I approach hereditary cancer predisposition in a child with cancer

Pediatr Blood Cancer. 2019 Nov;66(11):e27916. doi: 10.1002/pbc.27916. Epub 2019 Jul 24.

Abstract

Approximately 10% of all children with cancer are affected by a monogenic cancer predisposition syndrome. This has important implications for both the child and her/his family. The assessment of hereditary cancer predisposition is a challenging task for clinicians and genetic counselors in daily routine. It includes consideration of tumor genetics, specific features of the patient, and the medical/family history. To keep up with the pace of this rapidly evolving and increasingly complex field of genetic susceptibility, we suggest a systematic approach for the evaluation of the child with cancer and her/his family by an interdisciplinary team specialized in hereditary cancer predisposition.

Keywords: cancer; children; hereditary cancer predisposition; screening.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Age of Onset
  • Antineoplastic Agents / adverse effects
  • Child
  • Clinical Decision-Making
  • Female
  • Genetic Counseling*
  • Genetic Predisposition to Disease
  • Genetic Testing
  • Genotype
  • Humans
  • Interdisciplinary Communication
  • Male
  • Medical History Taking
  • Neoplasms, Multiple Primary / genetics
  • Neoplastic Syndromes, Hereditary* / genetics
  • Neoplastic Syndromes, Hereditary* / psychology
  • Patient Care Team
  • Pedigree
  • Psychology
  • Risk Assessment

Substances

  • Antineoplastic Agents