Oncobrca-next, Paraffin Blocks

Other names: BRCA gene test, BRCA gene 1, BRCA gene 2, breast cancer susceptibility gene1, breast cancer susceptibility gene 2

Breast cancer

A cancer that starts in breast tissue is known as “Breast Cancer”.  It happens when breast tissue grows out of control and usually forms a tumour.

Like all the cancer, this may remain situated in breast tissue only or it may spread. Although much more common in women, it can be seen rarely in men too. There are various types of breast cancer involving different parts of inner and outer breast tissue. Eg. Breast skin, area around nipple or internal ducts etc.

Certain factor put you at higher risk of developing breast cancer

• Older age
• History of breast cancer or benign (non-cancer) breast disease
• Inherited risk of breast cancer, including having BRCA1 and BRCA2 gene changes
• Dense breast tissue
• Menstruatingat an early age
• Starting menopauseat a later age
• Taking hormone therapyfor symptoms of menopause
• Radiation therapyto the breast or chest
• Obesity
• Drinking alcohol

BRCA gene

Genes are parts of DNA inherited from your mother and father. They carry information that determine your unique traits, such as height and eye colour. Genes are also responsible for certain health conditions. 

BRCA1 and BRCA2 are genes make proteins that help prevent tumour formation. Women with a mutated BRCA genes have a higher risk of getting breast or ovarian cancer. However, not everyone who inherits a BRCA1 or BRCA2 mutation will get cancer.

• A new lump or thickening in or near the breast or in the armpit
• A change in the size or shape of the breast
• A dimple or puckering in the skin of the breast
• A nipple turned inward into the breast, Scaly, red, or swollen skin in the nipple area
• Nipple discharge other than breast milk. The discharge might happen suddenly, be bloody, or happen in only one breast.
• Pain in any area of the breast

This test is used to find out if you have BRCA1 or BRCA2 gene mutation. A BRCA gene mutation can increase your risk of getting cancer.

• Have had breast cancer before
• Have had ovarian cancer before
• Have had family member with breast cancer or ovarian cancer.

Result is often given as “positive” or “negative”.

Interpretation:

A negative result means no BRCA mutation is found and risk of you developing breast or ovarian cancer is low. Positive results often states mutation is present in BRCA1 or BRCA2 genes. This puts you at higher risk of cancer. Women with an abnormal BRCA1 or BRCA2 gene have up to an 80% risk of developing breast cancer by age 90; increased risk of developing ovarian cancer is about 55% for women with BRCA1 mutations and about 25% for women with BRCA2 mutations. However, this also enables you to understand the condition and take better precautions such as more frequent mammograms and ultrasounds. Cancer is easier to treat when it's found in the early stage. However, not all breast cancer have BRCA mutation and not all BRCA mutation end up in breast cancer. Hence, it is very crucial to discuss your results with your doctor who will make you understand your case and also guide you in treatment or preventive options.