Cancer syndrome

Cancer syndrome refers to a group of disorders characterized by an increased risk of developing various types of cancer. These syndromes are often caused by inherited genetic mutations that can be passed down from one generation to the next. Individuals with cancer syndromes may develop cancer at a younger age than the general population and may have multiple family members affected by cancer.

Types of Cancer Syndromes

There are several well-known cancer syndromes, including:

• Lynch syndrome (Hereditary Nonpolyposis Colorectal Cancer, HNPCC)
• Li-Fraumeni syndrome
• BRCA1 and BRCA2 mutations (associated with breast and ovarian cancer)
• Familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP)
• Von Hippel-Lindau disease
• Multiple endocrine neoplasia (MEN)
• Cowden syndrome
• Peutz-Jeghers syndrome

Genetics and Inheritance

Cancer syndromes are typically inherited in an autosomal dominant manner, meaning that a mutation in just one of the two copies of a gene is sufficient to increase cancer risk. However, some syndromes may follow an autosomal recessive pattern or involve more complex inheritance mechanisms.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of a cancer syndrome often involves a combination of:

• Genetic testing
• Detailed family history
• Clinical evaluation and physical examination
• Specific diagnostic criteria for each syndrome

Management and Surveillance

Management of individuals with cancer syndromes includes:

• Regular screening and surveillance for early detection of cancer
• Prophylactic surgeries (e.g., mastectomy, colectomy)
• Lifestyle modifications to reduce cancer risk
• Genetic counseling for affected individuals and their families

Related Pages

• Cancer
• Genetic testing
• Oncology
• Hereditary cancer
• Genetic counseling

See Also

• List of cancer types
• Tumor suppressor gene
• Oncogene
• Carcinogenesis