Genetic profiling in the diagnosis of hereditary prostate cancer: Where do we stand?

Abstract

Prostate cancer has a heterogeneous genetic profile compared with other tumour entities. Accordingly, there are also various mutations that increase the risk of prostate cancer. Some genetic variants only have a mild impact, whereas other gene mutations (BRCA1 /2; HOXB13) may increase the risk significantly. All in all, a man with a negative family history is unlikely to be a carrier of mutations that are associated with an increased risk of PCa. However, this likelihood increases if the family history is positive for a known mutation or if there are relatives who were affected at an early age. In such cases, genetic counselling and testing should be considered, with a particular focus on BRCA1/2 mutations and HOXB13 mutations. However, genetic profiling has not had the potential to replace PSA testing, mpMRI of the prostate gland and/or prostate biopsies as part of cancer screening or the diagnostic algorithm in the general population. The presence of mutations associated with PCa merely allows patients to undergo screening earlier and in tighter intervals and possibly receive earlier definitive treatment.