About Breast & Ovarian Cancer
Breast cancer is common, affecting about 13% of women in their lifetime. Ovarian cancer is less common, affecting about 1-2% of women. Whilst most of these cancers will develop because of non-inherited mutations in different genes, some patients will develop these cancers because of inherited mutations in the BRCA1 and 2 genes. BRCA1 and BRCA2 are “tumor suppressor” genes, which means that they prevent cells from growing and dividing too fast or in an uncontrolled manner. Mutations in these genes can fail to maintain these regulatory control mechanisms and may lead to an increased risk of developing female breast and ovarian cancers as well as other cancers including pancreatic cancer and endometrial cancer. It has been estimated that BRCA1 and BRCA2 mutations account for about 5-10% of all breast cancers and about 20-25% of all hereditary cases of breast cancers. Mutations in BRCA1 and BRCA2 also account for about 15% of ovarian cancers. Patients with BRCA1 and BRCA2 mutations tend to develop breast cancers at a younger age than patients with sporadic breast cancers. However, by addressing the problem at an early stage the chances of successful treatment can be dramatically increased.This screening test can be used to identify BRCA1 and BRCA2 gene mutations within the family and to determine which family members may be at risk.
What type of sample is required?
The sample required for this screening test is typically a blood test, just as any blood test. The DNA is then extracted from your blood cells in the sample. For diagnosed cancer patients, somatic mutation analysis can also be performed on fixed tumour tissue from breast and ovarian tumours (FFPE samples). For information about specific requirements please contact our customer service. Medicare rebates may be available on some tests.
How does the test work?
The analysis utilizes Next-Generation sequencing technology, which allows sensitive mutation detection and analysis of the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes.
What is required for testing?
You will need a referral letter from your Specialist or Genetic Counsellor for this test. Once you have confirmed that you wish to proceed with testing, we can provide you with the necessary referral form to be filled out and signed by your Doctor. All we require for this test is a small blood sample which will be taken by a medical professional. We can provide you with details for one of our affiliated collectors based on your location.
Please note that BRCA1/2 screening requires counseling from a certified professional, who can guide through the testing process and provide information about the testing. Please contact our customer care team if you need help finding a genetic counselor.
Testing Options
The cost for the BRCA1 & BRCA2 Screening starts at just IDR16,000,000 .
GTL is also proud to offer our NEW extended breast and ovarian cancer panel, including an analysis of 11 genes associated with hereditary breast and ovarian cancers. The Genes covered in this extended panel are:
ATM, BRCA1, BRCA2, CHEK2, PALB2, RAD51C, RAD51D, NBN, CDH1, SMARCA4, TP53.
Please contact our friendly EasyDNA team for a free personalized consultation and quote.
Ordering your test
We arrange everything for you. Upon confirmation of your order we will send you an email with the Referral forms your Doctor will need to sign and return to us by Fax, the email will also include a recommendation for one of our affiliated Pathology Collection Centre close to you. We will arrange your appointment and book the courier to collect your samples after your appointment. Results will be available within 14-21 working days after receipt of specimen in our Brisbane laboratory and will be emailed to your referring Specialist or Genetic Counsellor as soon as they are available.
Note:
Your only additional cost will be the blood collection fee that may vary based on State/Location. Once your order is received, we will email you to confirm the order and advise the applicable fee for sample collection. Alternatively, you may contact our office for a quote.