Dr. Mai on Guidelines for Genetic Testing in CRC

Phuong L. Mai, MD, a hematologist/oncologist at the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center Hillman Cancer Center, discusses guidelines for genetic testing in colorectal cancer (CRC).

Genetic testing is indicated for patients who are diagnosed with CRC under the age of 50 and who have a family history of Lynch syndrome–related genetic cancers, such as endometrial cancer, Mai says. Additionally, the National Comprehensive Cancer Network guidelines suggest that universal tumor testing for Lynch syndrome should be conducted based on microsatellite instability status or immunohistochemistry staining, explains Mai.

Patients who have Lynch syndrome should undergo genetic testing. Otherwise, personal and familial histories should inform whether an individual receives genetic testing, concludes Mai.