How to Understand Your BRCA Test Results and Next Steps

BRCA testing identifies the risk of breast, ovarian, or any other cancers that can happen due to the mutation of the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes of the human body. The BRCA testing follows the simple blood or saliva collection to check for any changes in the DNA. The harmful changes of DNA can cause the risk of cancer. The significant changes in the DNA of cells are called mutations or variants. Health professionals consider the family history of a person before suggesting any kind of DNA mutation testing because the DNA variant is transferred from the parents to children.

Interpretation of BRCA testing results

Interpreting the BRCA results needs careful decision-making. The BRCA test results indicate whether you are carrying the BRCA1 or BRCA2 mutant gene that can enhance the chances of breast cancer. The results are broadly classified into three major categories, such as those mentioned below.

●       Positive results or likely pathogenic

The positive results of BRCA testing indicate the existence of BRCA1 and BRCA2 mutants in the human body. Though it does not indicate that the person has cancer, it confirms the higher chance of cancer risk exposure. The positive result signifies the people are more exposed to the risk of breast cancer (female), ovarian cancer, or prostate cancer (male).

●       Negative results or benign variant

The negative results of BRCA testing confirm that there is no existence of harmful mutants of BRCA1 or BRCA2. However, a negative result does not always imply that the person will not have cancer risk for any other reasons. The benign result specifies that the children have not inherited the harmful mutant of BRCA1 or BRCA2.

●       Variant of uncertain significance (VUS)

The VUS results of BRCA testing confirm that there is the presence of genetic variation, but its impact on generating cancer risk is yet unknown. More research is needed on the identified gene variation for making informative decisions. It simply indicates inconclusive results and the need for a healthcare professional’s consultation for further monitoring and assessment.

BRCA testing results predict the presence of an inherited mutant BRCA gene. But remember that the existence of an inherited gene does not always mean that you will have cancer. It only indicates the risk exposure of having cancer. Some people with inherited mutant BRCA never experience cancer in life. If you have positive results, you need to consult with healthcare professionals for further consultation. Medgenome is one of the reputed diagnosis and testing service providers that perform BRCA testing and confirm to give the most accurate result for early prevention and treatment.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1. How to do BRCA testing?

You need to give a blood sample or saliva for clinical testing. The testing process follows simple steps, and there is no painful intervention.

Q2. How long does it take to give the result?

It usually takes 2-4 weeks to give the results after sample collection.

Q3. Who are recommended to do BRCA testing?

People who have a family history of cancer or have already experienced cancer are advised to do BRCA testing by the healthcare practitioner.