BRCA Testing

The BRCA gene test is offered to patients who have a family history of breast cancer or ovarian cancer. A patient’s DNA is analyzed via blood test to detect harmful mutations in either the BRCA1 or the BRCA2 gene.  Specific inherited mutations in BRCA1 and BRCA2 significantly increase the risk of developing breast cancer and ovarian cancer.

There have been over 600 mutations discovered and identified in the BRCA1 gene, and approximately 450 different mutations identified in the BRCA2 gene.  Many of these mutations are associated with an increased risk of cancer.  The mutations of these two genes accounts for approximately 20%-25% of hereditary breast cancers.  Furthermore, mutations in these two genes accounts for approximately 15% of ovarian cancers as a whole.  Having a BRCA gene mutation is not a common occurrence and therefore this gene test is not routinely performed on patients at average risk for breast or ovarian cancers.

The BRCA gene test will tell a patient whether or not they are a carrier of an inherited BRCA gene mutation.  An estimate of the patient’s personal risk of breast cancer and ovarian cancer, in addition to genetic counseling are part of the BRCA gene test process.

Patients with additional questions or concerns pertaining to BRCA testing should contact our office to schedule an appointment with one of our experienced providers.