Inherited Risk Factors for NETs

Justin Annes, MD, PhD, Stanford University, is a physician-scientist with a long-standing interest in hereditary neuroendocrine tumors. He gave a talk on the subject at a NETRF patient and caregiver conference. View his presentation now:

How do you know if you have an inherited mutation?

The route to a clinical diagnosis for an inherited genetic mutation varies. In some cases, the presence of two or more associated medical conditions or syndromes can meet the criteria. A patient’s medical history, as well as their family’s medical history, is part of the evaluation process. Having a first-degree relative with a known mutation also plays an important role in establishing a clinical diagnosis.

If a genetic mutation is suspected or known, your doctor may conduct a clinical evaluation that could include:

• Blood or urine tests
• Imaging test
• Gene tests

There are many different types of gene tests using a range of technology. The types of gene testing kits advertised on TV or sold in the drug store will probably not help someone learn about their risk factors for NETs.  The type of genetic test your doctor would order would screen for a specific set of mutations, which may not be included on the panels of the tests available commercially.

If you are thinking about genetic testing

If you are thinking about genetic testing for yourself or a family member, speak with a professional who is trained in genetics. These professionals can include doctors, genetic counselors, and other health care providers (such as nurses, psychologists, or social workers). Genetic counseling can help people consider the risks, benefits, and limitations of genetic testing. Sometimes the genetic professional finds that testing is not needed.

Genetic counseling includes a detailed review of the individual’s personal and family medical history related to possible cancer risk. Counseling also includes discussions about such issues as:

• Whether genetic testing is appropriate
• Which specific test(s) might be used
• The technical accuracy of the test(s)
• The usefulness of the test in making health care decisions.
• The psychological risks and benefits of learning one’s genetic test results

Genetic tests may not be covered by all insurance plans. Or tests may only be covered under strict criteria. It’s important to contact your health insurance plan to learn more about your coverage and to ask about the costs for genetic testing in advance of making any decisions.

Look for a genetic counselor https://www.nsgc.org/page/find-a-genetic-counselor