NEWLY DIAGNOSED PROSTATE CANCER GUIDE
Genetic Testing Genetic testing identifies gene mutations that can impact patients and their families. Two different types of genetic tests in prostate cancer are germline and somatic. These are clinical tests that are used by doctors to learn more about a patient’s prostate cancer and to help develop treatment plans. Understanding the differences between these tests is important to decide which one may be right for you.
GENETIC OR GERMLINE TESTING BIOMARKER OR SOMATIC TESTING
Inherited, or hereditary, mutations
Acquired mutations
Inherited - passed from parent to child
Not passed from parent to child
Inherited gene mutations exist in every cell of the body 10% of prostate cancer is thought to be caused by inherited, germline mutations
Acquired gene mutations exist only in the tumor itself 90% of prostate cancer is thought to be due to non-inherited, acquired mutations
Provides eligibility for targeted cancer therapies Provides eligibility for targeted cancer therapies
May provide information on family member’s risk of developing certain cancers
Does not provide information on cancer risk in other family members Identified by testing the tumor itself or tumor cells that are circulating in the blood
Identified through a blood or saliva sample
Approximately 10% of prostate cancers are thought to be caused by an inherited gene mutation. Inherited genetic mutations can be found in the BRCA1, BRCA2, and HOBX13 genes, among others. Genetic or germline testing is done with a simple blood or saliva test. A genetic counselor can help you better understand the pros and cons of genetic testing. It is important to know that, while prostate cancer can run in some families, most prostate cancers occur in men without a family history of it. Targeted therapies are available for men with a genetic mutation and metastatic castrate-resistant prostate cancer (mHRPC). Genetic testing also provides family members with valuable information regarding their cancer risks. Family members of men with hereditary cancer have a 50% chance of having the same genetic mutation. Genetic testing can help family members know if they should also be tested or take measures to reduce their risk of developing cancer. All men with prostate cancer should consider genetic testing.
Learn more at zerocancer.org/genetic-testing .
A PATIENT EDUCATION SERIES |
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ZEROCANCER.ORG
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