Hereditary tumors 

At least 5-10% of all tumor diseases are hereditary. Hereditary tumor risk syndromes are caused by pathogenic variants in genes with a role in the processes of tumor development. The detection of a causative genetic variant enables

• Individual therapy planning
• Estimation of disease probabilities
• Individualized prevention
• Testing of family members

Initially, a family member with a tumor (index patient) should be genetically tested to confirm the diagnosis of a tumor risk syndrome. Afterwards, other (healthy) family members can be tested specifically and possibly get information about an increased risk of disease. The diagnostic testing of a person with a tumor disease may be initiated by any physician.

In principle, any tumor disease can be hereditary. The probability of detecting a causative genetic variant increases with young age of onset, rare tumors or familial clustering.

In cooperation with Molecular Pathology Trier, we also offer molecular pathological diagnostics of solid tumors (e.g. immunohistochemistry and microsatellite instability in colon carcinomas). 

Please contact us for questions regarding indication, panel selection, genetic counseling, and consequences following diagnosis.