BRCA mutation

From WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia

Autodominant_en.svg
BRCA_Genes.svg

BRCA mutation

A BRCA mutation is a mutation in either of the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes, which are tumor suppressor genes. These genes produce proteins that help repair damaged DNA, playing a role in ensuring the stability of a cell's genetic material. When either of these genes is mutated, DNA damage may not be repaired properly, and cells are more likely to develop additional genetic alterations that can lead to cancer.

Types of BRCA Mutations[edit | edit source]

BRCA mutations can be inherited or acquired. Inherited mutations are passed from parents to their children and are present in all cells of the body. Acquired mutations occur in individual cells during a person's lifetime and are not passed on to the next generation.

BRCA1[edit | edit source]

The BRCA1 gene is located on chromosome 17. Mutations in this gene are associated with a higher risk of developing breast cancer, ovarian cancer, and other types of cancer.

BRCA2[edit | edit source]

The BRCA2 gene is located on chromosome 13. Mutations in this gene also increase the risk of breast and ovarian cancers, as well as other cancers such as pancreatic cancer and prostate cancer.

Associated Cancers[edit | edit source]

Individuals with BRCA mutations have a significantly increased risk of developing certain types of cancer. These include:

Genetic Testing[edit | edit source]

Genetic testing for BRCA mutations can help identify individuals at high risk for developing cancer. This information can be used to make informed decisions about preventive measures, such as increased surveillance, prophylactic surgeries, or chemoprevention.

Management and Prevention[edit | edit source]

For individuals with BRCA mutations, several strategies can be employed to manage and reduce cancer risk:

Implications for Family Members[edit | edit source]

Since BRCA mutations are hereditary, family members of individuals with these mutations may also be at increased risk. Genetic counseling and testing are recommended for family members to determine their risk and consider appropriate preventive measures.

See Also[edit | edit source]

Related Pages[edit | edit source]

WikiMD
Navigation: Wellness - Encyclopedia - Health topics - Disease Index‏‎ - Drugs - World Directory - Gray's Anatomy - Keto diet - Recipes

Search WikiMD

Ad.Tired of being Overweight? Try W8MD's physician weight loss program.
Semaglutide (Ozempic / Wegovy and Tirzepatide (Mounjaro / Zepbound) available.
Advertise on WikiMD

WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia

Let Food Be Thy Medicine
Medicine Thy Food - Hippocrates

Medical Disclaimer: WikiMD is not a substitute for professional medical advice. The information on WikiMD is provided as an information resource only, may be incorrect, outdated or misleading, and is not to be used or relied on for any diagnostic or treatment purposes. Please consult your health care provider before making any healthcare decisions or for guidance about a specific medical condition. WikiMD expressly disclaims responsibility, and shall have no liability, for any damages, loss, injury, or liability whatsoever suffered as a result of your reliance on the information contained in this site. By visiting this site you agree to the foregoing terms and conditions, which may from time to time be changed or supplemented by WikiMD. If you do not agree to the foregoing terms and conditions, you should not enter or use this site. See full disclaimer.
Credits:Most images are courtesy of Wikimedia commons, and templates Wikipedia, licensed under CC BY SA or similar.

Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD