As highlighted in our latest ICARE newsletter, a new study in BRCA1/2 carriers with advanced breast cancer found: Read the full article to learn more at: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37437366/Reference: Valenza, et al. Eur J Cancer. 2023;190:112944. PMID: 37437366. We also encourage you to read the full ICARE newsletter for other clinical and research updates at https://inheritedcancer.net/newsletters/
Permanent link to this article: https://inheritedcancer.net/icare-social-media-post-november-2024-brca1-2-carriers-with-advanced-breast-cancer/
As highlighted in the latest ICARE newsletter, a recent study evaluated breast cancer risks after ovarian cancer in BRCA1 & BRCA2 carriers. 🔍 After chemotherapy for ovarian cancer: 📊 Incidence rates were: 📈 What does this mean? Learn more at: https://tinyurl.com/yc8de3py Reference: Evans, et al. Genet Med. 2024;26(9):101172. PMID: 38847192. We also encourage you to …
Permanent link to this article: https://inheritedcancer.net/post111924/
As highlighted in the latest ICARE newsletter, a recent trial among BRCA1/2 carriers with breast cancer comparing PARP inhibitors to standard chemotherapy (Treatment of Physician’s Choice – TPC) found that after 25.7 months of follow up: Overall survival in each group was: The % alive at 3 years was: Patients who received Olaparib for first …
Permanent link to this article: https://inheritedcancer.net/post111224/
Are you or someone you love affected by a BRCA gene mutation 🧬 ? This event is for you! On November 5th, Women’s College Hospital will be hosting a hybrid event entitled, BRCA: 30 Years, Discovery to Impact, to celebrate 30 years since the groundbreaking discovery of the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes. Learn from leading …
Permanent link to this article: https://inheritedcancer.net/post101724/
A recent study found that in women with breast cancer, double mastectomy did NOT lead to longer survival. This is very important information for women to know as they make decisions about breast cancer surgery. Read the full article to learn more at: https://bit.ly/47a5O1b Reference: Giannakeas, et al. JAMA Oncol. 2024:e242212. PMID: 39052262.
Permanent link to this article: https://inheritedcancer.net/post100924_1/
The National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN) released updated Genetic Familial High-Risk Assessment Colorectal, Endometrial, and Gastric Cancer guidelines on October 3rd, 2024. Updates include ⤸ Added the following to testing being considered: Personal history of colorectal or endometrial cancer at or older than age 50, and: Revised information about EPCAM gene (which has usually been …
Permanent link to this article: https://inheritedcancer.net/post100824/
By Marleah Dean Kruzel, PhD, BRCA2 Previvor When I was eight years old, my mother found a lump in her breast – barely noticeable. For a few years, I watched her undergo chemotherapy, radiation, and a prophylactic mastectomy and reconstruction. Since then, my maternal aunt and grandmother also fought breast cancer, and we learned my …
Permanent link to this article: https://inheritedcancer.net/icare-newsletter-fall-2024-community-spotlight-the-patient-and-the-researcher-shares-her-uncertain-future-and-lessons-shes-learned/
A recent study found that in females with unilateral breast cancer (meaning breast cancer on one side) who decided to have a double mastectomy had similar mortality rates to those treated with lumpectomy or unilateral mastectomy (meaning double mastectomy did NOT lead to longer survival). Findings showed that while bilateral mastectomy greatly lowered the risk …
Permanent link to this article: https://inheritedcancer.net/icare-newsletter-fall-2024-double-mastectomy-not-linked-to-survival-advantage/
Among BRCA1/2 carriers with advanced breast cancer, PARP inhibitors showed some activity even in patients with platinum resistant/unresponsive disease. However, the optimal delivery of platinum agents and PARP inhibitors was not clear.1 In another study of BRCA1/2 carriers with breast cancer (OlympiAD Trial), PARP inhibitors were compared to chemotherapy Treatment of Physician’s Choice (TPC), with …
Permanent link to this article: https://inheritedcancer.net/icare-newsletter-fall-2024-brca1-2-carriers-treatment-advances/
A recently published study reported that among females with ovarian cancer who received chemotherapy, their risk for breast cancer was lower for the next 5 years. Specifically, incidence rates were lower at 2 years (1.18%) and between 2 to 5 years (1.13%); however, incidence rates rose thereafter for BRCA1 carriers (>4% annually post 10 years). This study …
Permanent link to this article: https://inheritedcancer.net/icare-newsletter-fall-2024-breast-cancer-after-ovarian-cancer-in-brca1-2-carriers/
A recent study reported that pregnancy after breast cancer was safe for both mother and baby.1 Specifically, the researchers found that pregnancy after breast cancer was not associated with adverse maternal prognosis or fetal outcomes. Another study reported that breast cancer after pregnancy could be associated with poorer outcomes. Specifically, breast cancer diagnosed within 10 …
Permanent link to this article: https://inheritedcancer.net/icare-newsletter-fall-2024-brca1-2-carriers-and-pregnancy-related-ris/
This question was addressed by Ronald D. Alvarez, MD, MBA, Professor and Chairman of the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology at the Vanderbilt University Medical Center in Nashville, Tennessee. He is also the current vice chair of the National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN) Ovarian Cancer Treatment Guidelines and has served in multiple leadership roles in …
Permanent link to this article: https://inheritedcancer.net/icare-newsletter-spring-2024-ask-the-expert/
Several important studies were published recently on the effectiveness of risk management strategies in BRCA carriers. Specifically, a recently published study in which ICARE participants were included suggested that preventive bilateral mastectomy for BRCA carriers greatly reduced the risk of developing breast cancer by 80%.1 Additionally, study findings showed that after preventive mastectomy, the chance …
Permanent link to this article: https://inheritedcancer.net/icare-newsletter-spring-2024-how-well-do-cancer-risk-management-strategies-work-among-brca-carriers/
Genetic/Familial High-Risk Assessment: Breast, Ovarian, and Pancreatic Cancer – Released February 12th, 2024 (V3.2024) Check out the full guidelines by creating a FREE account at www.nccn.org/professionals/physician_gls/pdf/genetics_bop.pdf Contralateral breast cancer risks in these updated guidelines: Expanded guidance about gynecologic cancers in BRCA1/2 carriers: Some highlights related to HRT include: Genetic/Familial High-Risk Assessment: Colorectal Cancer – Released …
Permanent link to this article: https://inheritedcancer.net/icare-newsletter-spring-2024-national-comprehensive-cancer-network-nccn-guideline-updates/
Below is a featured video from the March 2024 case conference, during which Ben Ho Park, MD, PhD discusses liquid biopsies.
Permanent link to this article: https://inheritedcancer.net/video30724/
A recent study found that Olaparib (Lynparza) improved survival outcomes among men with BRCA1/2 mutations and metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer, regardless of whether the mutation was germline or somatic. This underscores the potential of targeted therapies in improving outcomes for those with inherited cancer gene mutations. Learn more at: https://ascopubs.org/doi/10.1200/JCO.23.00339 Reference: Mateo, et al. J …
Permanent link to this article: https://inheritedcancer.net/post22024/
The National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN) just released updated Genetic/Familial Breast, Ovarian, and Pancreatic Cancer guidelines on February 12th, 2024! Updates include adding contralateral breast cancer risks for BRCA1, BRCA2, PALB2, CHEK2, and other genes to the GENE-A (Cancer Risk Management) table 🧬 You can check out the full guidelines by creating a FREE account …
Permanent link to this article: https://inheritedcancer.net/post21324/
The National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN) just released updated Genetic/Familial Breast, Ovarian, and Pancreatic Cancer guidelines on February 12th, 2024! Updates include expanded guidance about gynecologic cancers in BRCA1 and BRCA2, including:✓ Reproductive considerations✓ Non-surgical and surgical risk reduction✓ Salpingectomy✓ Hysterectomy considerations✓ HRT after risk-reducing removal of the ovaries You can check out the full …
Permanent link to this article: https://inheritedcancer.net/post21324_2/
Permanent link to this article: https://inheritedcancer.net/post102923/
On April 28th, 2023, the FDA approved olaparib plus abiraterone acetate for first line treatment for metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer, but only in patients whose tumors have BRCA mutations. Although a broad indication for the combination therapy was desired, concerns about the trial design were raised, and the phase III results did not explicitly show …
Permanent link to this article: https://inheritedcancer.net/icare-newsletter-fall-2023-brca-associated-prostate-cancers/
Oct 05
A recent study, based on ICARE participants, found that getting care according to guidelines depends on what the healthcare provider recommends, as well as how much trust the patient has in their care. This study shows us how important it is to find ways to improve knowledge among healthcare providers and trust in care among …
Permanent link to this article: https://inheritedcancer.net/icare-newsletter-fall-2023-healthcare-delivery/
A new study of almost 18,000 men with prostate cancer showed that inherited mutations in the BRCA2, ATM, and NBN genes were strongly associated with aggressive prostate cancer. Less strong associations were seen for inherited mutations in the MSH2, XRCC2, and MRE11A genes. The findings of this study suggest that knowing about inherited genes that …
Permanent link to this article: https://inheritedcancer.net/icare-newsletter-fall-2023-genes-associated-with-aggressive-prostate-cancer/
A person with a pathogenic variant in the CHEK2 gene may be at an increased risk for developing breast and other cancers. This ACMG Clinical Practice Resource, published in ACMG’s flagship journal, Genetics in Medicine, provides valuable information for healthcare providers caring for individuals with pathogenic variants in the CHEK2gene. This new ACMG Practice Resource …
Permanent link to this article: https://inheritedcancer.net/icare-newsletter-fall-2023-newly-released-acmg-clinical-practice-resource-on-chek2-developed-through-a-group-of-worldwide-experts/
Check out the full NCCN guidelines by creating a FREE account at www.nccn.org Genetic/Familial High-Risk Assessment: Breast, Ovarian, and Pancreatic CancerReleased August 28th, 2023 (V1.2024) › Transgender, Non-Binary, and Gender Diverse Individuals: NEW section on care (Page 63-66, TNBGD-1 to 4)› Li-Fraumeni Syndrome: Significant updates to content (risks and care) (Pages 57-60, LIFR-A): Table added …
Permanent link to this article: https://inheritedcancer.net/icare-newsletter-fall-2023-national-comprehensive-cancer-network-nccn-guidelines-updates/
A critical step forward in cancer care! The FDA has approved the use of niraparib and abiraterone acetate with prednisone in treating patients with BRCA-mutated castration-resistant prostate cancer. The green light comes backed by the robust efficacy data from the MAGNITUDE trial. Read more about the FDA approval at https://tinyurl.com/dzdvtm9m Learn more about the MAGNITUDE …
Permanent link to this article: https://inheritedcancer.net/post82423/
Below is a featured video from the August 2023 case conference, during which Sheila Rajagopal, MD, MPH, MSc from the National Cancer Institute presents on using a gene expression-driven algorithm to prioritize competing treatment options for BRCA carriers with breast cancer.
Permanent link to this article: https://inheritedcancer.net/video81023/
A recent study, which 𝗶𝗻𝗰𝗹𝘂𝗱𝗲𝗱 𝗜𝗖𝗔𝗥𝗘 𝗽𝗮𝗿𝘁𝗶𝗰𝗶𝗽𝗮𝗻𝘁𝘀, found that getting care according to guidelines depends on: Therefore, we need ways to improve knowledge among healthcare providers and trust in care among patients! Use this link to learn more: https://tinyurl.com/n26m4zys Reference: Dean, et al. Genet Med. 2023;100945. PMID: 37515473.
Permanent link to this article: https://inheritedcancer.net/post80723/
Olaparib plus abiraterone acetate is recommended as the first line treatment for metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer, but only in patients whose tumors have BRCA mutations. Although a broad indication for the combination therapy was desired, concerns about the trial design were raised, and the phase III results did not explicitly show that patients without a …
Permanent link to this article: https://inheritedcancer.net/post61623/
Did you know that transgender and gender-diverse persons face unique challenges that can influence cancer risk and outcomes? For instance, these individuals face barriers to healthcare access and inequities in treatment, with healthcare providers lacking knowledge about the health needs of this population. Solutions are needed to offer the best care for these individuals. Use …
Permanent link to this article: https://inheritedcancer.net/post52223/
According to a recent Phase II study, Talazoparib may benefit patients with PALB2-associated breast cancer. Findings showed that Talazoparib appeared effective and safe in certain patients with advanced disease. Read the full article at this link: https://www.nature.com/articles/s43018-022-00439-1 Reference: Gruber et al. Nat Cancer. 2022;3(10):1181-1191. PMID: 36253484.
Permanent link to this article: https://inheritedcancer.net/post32723/
The Expert Panel Consensus, chaired by the Society of Surgical Oncology with the American Society of Clinical Oncology and the American Society of Radiation Oncology, published new recommendations for hereditary breast cancer treatment. Learn more at https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32898012/ Reference: Corso & Magnoni. Eur J Cancer Prev. 2021;30(4):311-314. PMID: 32898012.
Permanent link to this article: https://inheritedcancer.net/post110822/
A new study reports that maintenance treatment with Olaparib may benefit BRCA1/2 carriers with pancreatic cancer. These findings demonstrated:long-term survival was more commontime to subsequent therapy was prolongedRead the full article at the link: https://ascopubs.org/doi/pdf/10.1200/JCO.21.01604Reference: Kindler et al. J Clin Oncol. 2022; JCO2101604. PMID: 35834777.
Permanent link to this article: https://inheritedcancer.net/post80522/
A recent small study suggests that immunotherapy may be beneficial for patients with refractory pancreatic or biliary cancer who have inherited homologous recombination deficiency (HRD) genes, BRCA1, BRCA2, and RAD51C.Check out the full article to learn more at 👇https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jamaoncology/article-abstract/2791557Reference: Terrero et al. JAMA Oncol. 2022 Apr:e220611. doi:10.1001/jamaoncol.2022.0611. PMID: 35446342.
Permanent link to this article: https://inheritedcancer.net/post61322/
Results from a small study suggest that melanomas in CDKN2A carriers may have better response rates to immunotherapy compared to non-carriers.Read the article to learn more!https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30291219/Reference: Helgadottir et al. J Med Genet. 2020 May;57(5): 316-321. PMID: 30291219.
Permanent link to this article: https://inheritedcancer.net/post51022/
A new study found that adjuvant olaparib significantly extended survival in BRCA1/2 carriers with HER2-negative high-risk early-stage breast cancer. Learn more at the following link: https://www.healio.com/news/hematology-oncology/20220323/adjuvant-olaparib-prolongs-survival-for-certain-patients-with-early-breast-cancer
Permanent link to this article: https://inheritedcancer.net/post41922/
Read the full article for more information!https://www.thelancet.com/journals/lanonc/article/PIIS1470-2045(22)00017-1/fulltextReference: Thiery-Vuillemin, et al. Lancet Oncol. 2022 Mar;23(3):393-405. PMID: 35157830.
Permanent link to this article: https://inheritedcancer.net/post40822/
On March 11th, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved olaparib (Lynparza) for the adjuvant treatment of BRCA1/2 carriers with human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2)-negative, high-risk early breast cancer who have been treated with neoadjuvant or adjuvant chemotherapy.Learn more at 👇https://www.fda.gov/drugs/resources-information-approved-drugs/fda-approves-olaparib-adjuvant-treatment-high-risk-early-breast-cancer
Permanent link to this article: https://inheritedcancer.net/post31522/
A new study indicated treatment with pembrolizumab (Ketruda) resulted in benefit in patients with MSI-H advanced uterine cancer. Read the full article to learn more!https://ascopubs.org/doi/10.1200/JCO.21.01874Reference: O’Malley et al. J Clin Oncol. 2022 Jan 6;JCO2101874. PMID: 34990208.
Permanent link to this article: https://inheritedcancer.net/post30122/
Jan 21
Belzutifan demonstrated clinical efficacy in patients with renal cell carcinoma who have Von Hippel-Lindau Disease. Learn more by reading the full The New England Journal of Medicine article at 👇https://www.nejm.org/doi/full/10.1056/NEJMoa2103425Reference: Jonasch, et al. N Engl J Med. 2021 Nov 25;385(22):2036-2046. PMID: 34818478.
Permanent link to this article: https://inheritedcancer.net/post12122/
Read the full article for more details 👇https://www.thelancet.com/journals/lanonc/article/PIIS1470-2045(21)00531-3/fulltextReference: Banerjee et al. Lancet Oncol. 2021 Dec;22(12):1721-1731. PMID: 34715071.
Permanent link to this article: https://inheritedcancer.net/post10422/
In every ICARE newsletter we give our participants the opportunity to have a question addressed by an expert in the field. In the latest edition, Dr. Kerry Schaffer discusses the use of PARP inhibitors to treat inherited forms of prostate cancer.Check out Dr. Schaffer’s full response at 👇https://inheritedcancer.net/newsletters/
Permanent link to this article: https://inheritedcancer.net/post122821/
On August 13th, the FDA approved the use of belzutifan (Welireg) for adult patients with von Hippel-Lindau (VHL) disease who require therapy for associated renal cell carcinoma, central nervous system hemangioblastomas, or pancreatic neuroendocrine tumors not requiring immediate surgery. For more information, check out The ASCO Post article at 👇https://ascopost.com/news/august-2021/fda-approves-belzutifan-for-cancers-associated-with-von-hippel-lindau-disease/?utm_source=TAP-EN-081321&utm_medium=email&utm_term=49cf1c97d48c2cf8231827e3bcb15769
Permanent link to this article: https://inheritedcancer.net/post121021/
FDA granted priority review to Olaparib for adjuvant treatment of certain patients with high-risk breast cancer. This designation applies to use of the agent by patients with BRCA-mutated, HER2-negative, high-risk early breast cancer who receive chemotherapy before or after surgery. For additional information, visit: https://tinyurl.com/healioFDAapproval
Permanent link to this article: https://inheritedcancer.net/post120621/
Check out the article for more information: https://ascopubs.org/doi/pdf/10.1200/JCO.20.03661
Permanent link to this article: https://inheritedcancer.net/post81621/
Below you may watch a featured video from the August 2021 ICARE Genetics Case Conferences outlining updates to National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN) guidelines.
Permanent link to this article: https://inheritedcancer.net/video81221_2/
For additional information, read the updated American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO) recommendation (released June 15th, 2021) at the following link: https://www.asco.org/practice-patients/guidelines/breast-cancer?intcmp=ws_ascoorg_gdlns_hereditarybreastcancer_site_pressrelease_061621____#/143725
Permanent link to this article: https://inheritedcancer.net/post81021/
For more information visit: https://www.cancernetwork.com/view/multi-trial-analysis-indicates-niraparib-maintenance-for-brca-ovarian-cancer-leads-to-pfs-benefit-across-settings
Permanent link to this article: https://inheritedcancer.net/post71621/
Check out the Nature Communications article for more information: https://www.nature.com/articles/s41467-021-22582-6
Permanent link to this article: https://inheritedcancer.net/post70921/
For more information, view the article at the following link below: https://ascopubs.org/doi/abs/10.1200/JCO.21.00003 You may also read the ASCO post article at: https://ascopost.com/news/may-2021/maintenance-rucaparib-in-patients-with-platinum-sensitive-pancreatic-cancer-and-germline-or-somatic-brca1-brca2-or-palb2-variants/?utm_source=TAP%2DEN%2D051221%2DTrending%5FLymphoma&utm_medium=email&utm_term=49cf1c97d48c2cf8231827e3bcb15769
Permanent link to this article: https://inheritedcancer.net/post70621/
For more information view the article at: https://www.nejm.org/doi/full/10.1056/NEJMoa2105215
Permanent link to this article: https://inheritedcancer.net/post61121/
For more information, view the article at the following link: https://ascopubs.org/doi/full/10.1200/PO.20.00418
Permanent link to this article: https://inheritedcancer.net/post52821/
For more information, read the article available at: https://ascopubs.org/doi/full/10.1200/JCO.20.02220
Permanent link to this article: https://inheritedcancer.net/post51821/
For additional information visit: https://www.onclive.com/view/adjuvant-olaparib-showcases-idfs-improvement-in-brca-high-risk-early-breast-cancer
Permanent link to this article: https://inheritedcancer.net/post22321/
Over the last several months, the American Society of Clinical Oncology published a number of guidelines related to the use of PARP inhibitors among those with BRCA-associated cancers, including guidelines focused on ovarian cancer,1 metastatic pancreatic cancer,2 and breast cancer.3 Additionally, costs of drugs also have great potential to influence policy, highlighting the importance of …
Permanent link to this article: https://inheritedcancer.net/7nlw2021/
The ICARE Winter 2021 Newsletter is now available! Check out this latest edition for recent research and clinical updates, a Q&A with a genomics expert, and an inspiring community spotlight piece. You can read the newsletter by visiting: https://inheritedcancer.net/wp-content/uploads/ICARE-2021-Winter-Newsletter.pdf. Please feel free to share with family members, friends, and/or your healthcare providers.
Permanent link to this article: https://inheritedcancer.net/post20921/
For further information, view the article available at: https://www.gynecologiconcology-online.net/…/fulltext
Permanent link to this article: https://inheritedcancer.net/post112720/
Brooke Thomas has leaned on 12 years of experience as a medical social worker and found ways to stay positive and upbeat through it all – and she has a lot to be positive about these days, thanks to an amazing response to her treatment as part of a clinical trial at Vanderbilt-Ingram Cancer Center. …
Permanent link to this article: https://inheritedcancer.net/post110620/
New guidelines for the use of PARP inhibitors to treat ovarian cancer among those with BRCA1 or BRCA2 mutations were published through the American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO) to guide providers about the role of this class of drugs in the management of this type of cancer. Link to the guidelines are available at: …
Permanent link to this article: https://inheritedcancer.net/post101320/
Among BRCA carriers with metastatic breast cancer, the combination of veliparib AND chemotherapy with platinum-based agents (carboplatin) and taxanes (paclitaxel) led to a longer duration of progression free survival (disease that did not progress), compared to those treated with ONLY chemotherapy. To read the full article visit: https://www.thelancet.com/journals/lanonc/article/PIIS1470-2045(20)30447-2/fulltext [This finding was previously outlined last year …
Permanent link to this article: https://inheritedcancer.net/post100620/
For additional information, please visit: https://www.onclive.com/view/fda-grants-breakthrough-status-to-mk-6482-for-select-vhl-disease-associated-rcc Also check out the abstract presented at the 2020 ASCO meeting: https://meetinglibrary.asco.org/record/185945/abstract
Permanent link to this article: https://inheritedcancer.net/post92220/
For further information, view the article available at: https://ascopubs.org/doi/full/10.1200/JCO.20.01035
Permanent link to this article: https://inheritedcancer.net/post91820/
The ICARE Summer 2020 Newsletter is now available! Check out this latest edition for recent research and clinical updates as well as a Q&A with a nationally renowned clinical geneticist from Vanderbilt-Ingram Cancer Center. You can read the newsletter by visiting: https://inheritedcancer.net/wp-content/uploads/ICARE-2020-Summer-Newsletter.pdf Please feel free to share with family members, friends, and/or your …
Permanent link to this article: https://inheritedcancer.net/post91620/
There continue to be ongoing advances in treatment studies among those with inherited cancer gene mutations, which are rapidly being followed by FDA approval for specific cancer treatments. Select studies and advances are summarized below: Neurofibromatosis Type 1 (NF1): The FDA granted selumetinib (a MEK inhibitor) breakthrough therapy designation for treatment of inoperable plexiform neurofibromas.
Permanent link to this article: https://inheritedcancer.net/8nls2020/
There continue to be ongoing advances in treatment studies among those with inherited cancer gene mutations, which are rapidly being followed by FDA approval for specific cancer treatments. Select studies and advances are summarized below: Lynch Syndrome: Colorectal Cancer: Among patients with MSI-H or MMR-deficient colorectal cancers (frequently seen among those with Lynch syndrome), pembrolizumab …
Permanent link to this article: https://inheritedcancer.net/7nls2020/
There continue to be ongoing advances in treatment studies among those with inherited cancer gene mutations, which are rapidly being followed by FDA approval for specific cancer treatments. Select studies and advances are summarized below: Von-Hippel Lindau (VHL) Disease: Among patients with VHL-associated clear cell renal cell carcinoma (RCC), a recent study suggested potential benefit …
Permanent link to this article: https://inheritedcancer.net/9nls2020/
There continue to be ongoing advances in treatment studies among those with inherited cancer gene mutations, which are rapidly being followed by FDA approval for specific cancer treatments. Select studies and advances are summarized below: BRCA1/2 Carriers: Breast Cancer: For those with later stage or metastatic breast cancer, the FDA currently has approvals for the use …
Permanent link to this article: https://inheritedcancer.net/2nls2020/
BRCA1/2 and other gene mutation carriers with early stage breast cancer are not always receiving cancer treatment as recommended by national guidelines. Even though more and more people have been tested for hereditary cancer over the years, using this information accurately to guide treatment has not been as successful. These findings highlight the need for …
Permanent link to this article: https://inheritedcancer.net/post71020/
On June 29, 2020, the FDA approved the use of Keytruda (pembrolizumab), as first-line treatment in unresectable or metastatic, microsatellite instability-high (MSI-H) or mismatch repair-deficient (dMMR) colorectal cancer. Among people with Lynch syndrome, the risk for colorectal cancer (which often has microsatellite instability and/or mismatch-repair deficiency) is raised. Keytruda (pembrolizumab) showed to double the progression-free …
Permanent link to this article: https://inheritedcancer.net/post63020/
In a study of 914 women with different breast cancer subtypes, overall pathologic complete response rates were: Higher in those with BRCA1/2 mutations (60.4% versus 46.7%) No differences were seen in those with mutations in other inherited cancer genes Among patients with triple-negative breast cancer, BRCA1/2 mutations had highest response rates to treatment in both …
Permanent link to this article: https://inheritedcancer.net/post61920/
Through a randomized phase 2 study (called the INFORM trial) among BRCA1/2 carriers with breast cancer, cisplatin was no better in inducing pathologic complete remission compared to AC. The pathologic complete remission rate was 18% for cisplatin and 26% for AC. Cisplatin is not better than other chemotherapy for induction therapy for breast cancers in …
Permanent link to this article: https://inheritedcancer.net/post61220/
In BRCA1/2 or PALB2 carriers with stage 3 or 4 pancreatic cancer, the combination of cisplatin + gemtricitabine with veliparib (a PARP inhibitor), did NOT seem to provide additional benefit over cisplatin + gemtricitabine alone. Through this phase 2 randomized control trial, response rates in both treatment arms were high with similar overall survival rates. …
Permanent link to this article: https://inheritedcancer.net/post60520/
A recent study found that patients with metastatic pancreatic cancer who had mutations in the DNA repair genes (either inherited or just in the tumor) had better clinical outcomes after platinum-based chemotherapy compared to patients without these mutations. Check out the link to full article: https://clincancerres.aacrjournals.org/content/early/2020/05/20/1078-0432.CCR-20-0418
Permanent link to this article: https://inheritedcancer.net/post52920/
On May 19, 2020 the FDA approved the use of olaparib (Lynparza) as treatment in BRCA and other gene carriers (homologous recombination repair genes) with metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer who have been treated with enzalutamide or abiraterone. Link to full article: https://www.fda.gov/drugs/drug-approvals-and-databases/fda-approves-olaparib-hrr-gene-mutated-metastatic-castration-resistant-prostate-cancer
Permanent link to this article: https://inheritedcancer.net/post52220/
On May 15, 2020 the FDA approved the use of rucaparib (Rubraca) as treatment in BRCA carriers with metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer who have been treated with androgen receptor-directed therapy and a taxane-based chemotherapy. Link to full article: https://www.fda.gov/drugs/fda-grants-accelerated-approval-rucaparib-brca-mutated-metastatic-castration-resistant-prostate
Permanent link to this article: https://inheritedcancer.net/post51920/
On May 8, 2020 the FDA approved the use of olaparib (Lynparza) as first-line maintenance treatment in BRCA1/2 carriers (deleterious or suspected deleterious mutations) and/or a genomic instability, with advanced epithelial ovarian, fallopian tube or primary peritoneal cancer who are in complete or partial response to first-line platinum-based chemotherapy. Link to full article: https://www.fda.gov/drugs/drug-approvals-and-databases/fda-approves-olaparib-plus-bevacizumab-maintenance-treatment-ovarian-fallopian-tube-or-primary
Permanent link to this article: https://inheritedcancer.net/post51220/
In recognition of World Ovarian Cancer Day, we’d like to share some exciting results from a study of women with ovarian cancer and a BRCA mutation: In a recent phase III trial, olaparib (PARP inhibitor) showed improved response and progression-free survival compared with chemotherapy (without platinum) in BRCA carriers with platinum-sensitive relapsed ovarian cancer who …
Permanent link to this article: https://inheritedcancer.net/post50820/
Findings from a recent study showed that olaparib (PARP inhibitor) significantly improved progression-free survival in patients with BRCA1, BRCA2, or ATM genetic alterations. Benefits were also more broadly seen among patients with homologous recombination repair gene defects. Link to full article: https://www.nejm.org/doi/full/10.1056/NEJMoa1911440 Check out the ASCO post article at: https://www.ascopost.com/news/may-2020/olaparib-for-patients-with-mcrpc-and-homologous-recombination-repair-gene-alterations/
Permanent link to this article: https://inheritedcancer.net/post50620/
On April 29, 2020 the FDA approved the use of niraparib (Zeluja) as first-line maintenance treatment in BRCA1/2 carriers with advanced ovarian cancer! More details available at: https://www.fda.gov/drugs/drug-approvals-and-databases/fda-approves-niraparib-first-line-maintenance-advanced-ovarian-cancer
Permanent link to this article: https://inheritedcancer.net/post42920/
Results from a population-based study of over 20,000 women from SEER registries of Georgia and California diagnosed with stage 0 to stage III breast cancer between 2014 and 2016 tested for inherited breast cancer were recently published. Findings suggest that women who test positive for certain mutations receive certain patterns of treatment. These patterns of …
Permanent link to this article: https://inheritedcancer.net/post41020/
Treatment-associated polyposis (TAP) should be considered in patients who develop many colon polyps after treatment for a childhood or young adulthood cancer but do not have an identified mutation in a hereditary cancer gene. A recent study reported that 35% of patients with TAP developed over 50 colorectal polyps, and 94% had multiple types of …
Permanent link to this article: https://inheritedcancer.net/post32720/
The FDA has granted a breakthrough therapy designation to selumetinib, a MEK inhibitor, for treatment of inoperable plexiform neurofibromas. These types of neurofibromas are almost exclusively seen in individuals with neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1). These plexiform neurofibromas are benign tumors on the nerve sheaths and can develop anywhere in the body. These tumors typically cause …
Permanent link to this article: https://inheritedcancer.net/post22820/
There are different types of genetic/DNA tests offered to patients with cancer: 1) Tumor tests, mainly done to guide cancer treatment. 2) Blood or saliva tests (on normal DNA that individual was born with) to identify inherited cancer predisposition, which may also guide cancer treatment in some instances. Genetic testing of the tumor detects mutations …
Permanent link to this article: https://inheritedcancer.net/post22620/
A recent study reported a high complete response rate among men with a BRCA1/2 mutation with metastatic, castration-resistant prostate cancer who were treated with niraparib (a PARP inhibitor) of 63% compared to 17% in the non-BRCA1/2 group.1 Based on this data, the Federal Drug Administration (FDA) granted breakthrough therapy designation to niraparib on October 3, …
Permanent link to this article: https://inheritedcancer.net/3nlw2020/
Results from a recent study showed olaparib (a PARP inhibitor) nearly doubled the progression-free survival in BRCA1/2 carriers with metastatic pancreatic cancer.1 Based on this data, the FDA approved the use of olaparib as a first-line maintenance treatment in BRCA1/2 carriers with metastatic, platinum-sensitive pancreatic cancer. This represents another treatment advance in pancreatic cancer and …
Permanent link to this article: https://inheritedcancer.net/2nlw2020/
A recent phase II study showed increased response to an immunotherapy drug (avelumab), in women with endometrial cancer with mismatch repair deficiency. Among women with Lynch Syndrome, the risk for endometrial cancer (which often has mismatch repair deficiency) is raised. This new study shows promising treatment options for women with endometrial cancer and Lynch syndrome …
Permanent link to this article: https://inheritedcancer.net/13020/
Happy New Year! 2020 represents a decade for ICARE We are celebrating 10 years of research, education, and engagement, through which we have enrolled nearly 3500 participants, including over 2000 gene mutation carriers, disseminated 15 newsletters, led and collaborated on multiple research projects, and impacted individuals affected by inherited cancer predisposition all over the …
Permanent link to this article: https://inheritedcancer.net/post1920/
The FDA approved the use of olaparib, a PARP inhibitor, as first-line maintenance treatment in BRCA1/2 carriers with metastatic, platinum-sensitive, pancreatic cancer. Platinum-sensitive cancer is a cancer that responds to treatment with drugs that contain the metal platinum, such as carboplatin or cisplatin. Olaparib showed to nearly double the progression-free survival in BRCA1/2 carriers with …
Permanent link to this article: https://inheritedcancer.net/post1320/
The FDA granted breakthrough therapy designation to niraparib (a PARP inhibitor) for the treatment of men with BRCA1/2 positive, metastatic castration-resistant, and heavily pre-treated prostate cancer. Results from a recent study show a 63% complete response rate in men with BRCA1/2 positive, metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer treated with niraparib compared to 17% in the non- …
Permanent link to this article: https://inheritedcancer.net/post122019/
Below you may watch a featured video from the December 2019 Genetics Case Conference, which outlined updates to the National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN) guidelines.
Permanent link to this article: https://inheritedcancer.net/video121219/
Did you know? PROs are impacting treatment advances in metastatic breast cancer. Olaparib increased progression-free survival among BRCA carriers with metastatic HER2- breast cancer. Thanks to patient reported outcomes, a new study now suggests it also improved patients’ quality of life! Check it out the new article published in October 2019 directly at https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/31446213!
Permanent link to this article: https://inheritedcancer.net/post12819/
Monotherapy with PARP inhibitors is FDA-approved for patients with metastatic breast cancer with BRCA mutations. BUT, does adding additional drugs (called ‘combination therapy’) help? In BRCA carriers with metastatic breast cancer, the combination of veliparib AND chemotherapy with platinum-based agents (carboplatin) and taxanes (paclitaxel) led to a longer duration of progression free survival (disease that …
Permanent link to this article: https://inheritedcancer.net/post101819/
New benefits from a PARP inhibitor, talazoparib, among BRCA carriers with early stage breast cancer. The current FDA approvals for the use of PARP inhibitors is limited to women with metastatic (stage IV) breast cancer. These drugs are being tested in early stage breast cancer to shrink down the tumor (called neoadjuvant treatment) before surgery …
Permanent link to this article: https://inheritedcancer.net/post101519/
A recently reported study of women with ovarian cancer and homologous recombination deficiency (HRD) who received a PARP inhibitor (niraparib) as fourth line or later treatment showed potential clinical benefit. Specifically, median overall survival after treatment was 19 months in the HRD-positive group (including those with BRCA1/2 mutations) compared to 15.5 months in the HRD-negative …
Permanent link to this article: https://inheritedcancer.net/4nls2019/
Results from a clinical trial of individuals with a BRCA1/2 mutation and pancreatic cancer showed that patients who received a PARP inhibitor (olaparib) for maintenance treatment had almost half the risk of their disease progressing when compared to receiving a placebo.1 In fact, after 2 years, 22.1% of patients who received olaparib had no disease …
Permanent link to this article: https://inheritedcancer.net/3nls2019/
There is now information to suggest that identifying inherited mutations in DNA repair genes, such as BRCA1/2 and other genes, in men with metastatic prostate cancer may open doors for other treatment options. Results of a phase 2 clinical trial among men with metastatic and heavily pre-treated prostate cancer were presented at the American Society …
Permanent link to this article: https://inheritedcancer.net/2nls2019/
A new drug (sorafenib) showed promising results among patients with desmoid tumors, which are a type of tumor for which patients with Familial Adenomatous Polyposis (FAP) due to APC gene mutations are at risk. These tumors frequently grow and encompass internal organs and can be hard to remove surgically. The newly published research showed that …
Permanent link to this article: https://inheritedcancer.net/9nlw2019/
Pertaining to metastatic prostate cancer, recently published data reported 8.1% of men with advanced prostate cancer had evidence of mismatch repair (MMR) mutations in their tumors. These types of mutations are frequently seen in tumors among Lynch syndrome patients. In addition, men with this type of tumor had much poorer survival. Tumors with MMR defects …
Permanent link to this article: https://inheritedcancer.net/7nlw2019/
Additional exciting advances include the results of a new drug (pazopanib) to treat an inherited cancer condition called von Hippel-Lindau Disease (VHL), in which patients are predisposed to kidney cancers, pancreatic tumors, and hemangioblastomas (i.e., tumors involving the blood vessels). Study results showed that among 31 patients with VHL, overall response rate with the drug …
Permanent link to this article: https://inheritedcancer.net/8nlw2019/
Treatment among patients with metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer: A PARP inhibitor (rucaparib) was granted a breakthrough therapy designation in October 2018 for monotherapy (i.e., sole treatment) among men with metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer (with a BRCA1/2 mutation) who have received at least one prior androgen receptor-directed treatment and taxane-based chemotherapy. This designation was granted based …
Permanent link to this article: https://inheritedcancer.net/3nlw2019/
Treatment among patients with advanced or metastatic breast cancer: A PARP inhibitor (talazoparib) was approved by the FDA on October 16, 2018 for BRCA carriers with HER2-negative locally advanced or metastatic breast cancer, based on results of the EMBRACA trial outlined in the last ICARE newsletter. Litton JK, et al. N Engl J Med. 2018 …
Permanent link to this article: https://inheritedcancer.net/1nlw2019/
Although the Lynch syndrome tumor spectrum is thought to be limited to cancers of the colorectum, endometrium, ovaries, stomach, and a few other cancer types, a recent article suggested there might be a broader tumor spectrum than previously considered. Furthermore, colorectal and endometrial cancers which develop among Lynch syndrome patients frequently are determined on tumor …
Permanent link to this article: https://inheritedcancer.net/6nlw2019/
A recent study reported that a large proportion of men with aggressive prostate cancer have inherited cancer gene mutations. Specifically, among 400 patients with castration-resistant prostate cancer, 16.2% had a germline mutation in a DNA damage repair gene, including 3% with a BRCA2 mutation. Among BRCA2 carriers, survival was 17.4 months, which was much lower …
Permanent link to this article: https://inheritedcancer.net/5nlw2019/
First line maintenance treatment among patients newly diagnosed with advanced ovarian cancer: The results of a trial using a PARP inhibitor (olaparib) as maintenance treatment among ovarian cancer patients with advanced disease, a BRCA mutation, and complete or partial response to platinum-based chemotherapy showed that survival at 3 years was 60% among those who got …
Permanent link to this article: https://inheritedcancer.net/2nlw2019/
In a Phase 3 clinical trial among BRCA carriers with advanced breast cancer, an oral PARP Inhibitor (talazoparib) was compared to standard chemotherapy. Among those who received the PARP inhibitor, risk of disease progression or death was 46% lower, and the response rate was double. Furthermore, the side effect profile, quality-of-life measures, and breast cancer …
Permanent link to this article: https://inheritedcancer.net/8nls2018/
Findings through a recent study reported that inherited cancer gene mutations were present in 8.2% of those with advanced or metastatic prostate cancer, which provides additional support to include this group of men in broader testing, particularly as targeted treatments based on inherited gene mutations becomes increasingly available.1 Another recent study suggested that those with …
Permanent link to this article: https://inheritedcancer.net/10nlw2018/
A recently published phase II clinical trial investigated the use of a new class of drugs (called PD-1 Inhibitors) in DNA mismatch repair-deficient/ microsatellite instability-high colorectal tumors (which are features seen in the majority of colorectal tumors from individuals with Lynch Syndrome) among patients with metastatic disease.1 Investigators found patients who received two PD-1 Inhibitors …
Permanent link to this article: https://inheritedcancer.net/7nlw2018/
On January 12, 2018, the FDA approved the first PARP Inhibitor (Lynparza) for treatment in patients with advanced breast cancer due to inherited BRCA mutations.1 This drug is already approved for certain BRCA carriers for advanced ovarian cancer. PARP inhibitors were originally developed to target the specific pathway through which cancer develops among those with …
Permanent link to this article: https://inheritedcancer.net/6nlw2018/
Over the last few years, immunotherapy has emerged as an exciting new class of drugs. As early as 2015, immunotherapy through PD-1 Inhibitors among patients with MSI-H colorectal cancers was shown to be of potential benefit.1 As many individuals with Lynch Syndrome have cancers that are MSI-H and mismatch repair deficient, this class of drugs …
Permanent link to this article: https://inheritedcancer.net/5nls2017/
Over the last decade, a new class of drugs called “PARP Inhibitors” has been evaluated as a form of targeted treatment among BRCA carriers. Results were recently reported from a Phase 3 clinical trial among BRCA carriers with HER2-negative metastatic breast cancer who received two or less prior chemotherapy regimens for their metastatic disease. Study …
Permanent link to this article: https://inheritedcancer.net/4nls2017/
The FDA just approved another PARP inhibitor, rucaparib, for BRCA carriers with ovarian cancer who have already been treated with two or more chemotherapies. Among those with BRCA-mutant ovarian cancers, 54% had a partial or complete response to the drug with a median duration response of 9.2 months. The agency also approved a companion diagnostic …
Permanent link to this article: https://inheritedcancer.net/6nlw2017/
Among 799 patients with prostate cancer, the rate of BRCA1/2 mutations was much higher among those who passed away of prostate cancer (6.07%) compared to those with low risk disease (1.44%).1 Among the group that died of prostate cancer, those with BRCA1/2 or ATM mutations passed away at an earlier age and had a shorter …
Permanent link to this article: https://inheritedcancer.net/3nlw2017/
People with Lynch Syndrome have a non-working Lynch gene (“mutation”), while the other copy of that gene is normal (recognizing that all of these genes come in pairs, with one member of the pair coming from each parent). Over the last few years, there has been an increased realization that some individuals have a mutation …
Permanent link to this article: https://inheritedcancer.net/2nlw2017/
A recent study published in the New England Journal of Medicine suggests that PARP-Inhibitors may be of potential use in men who are no longer responding to standard treatments and carry either somatic (i.e., tumor) and/or germline (inherited) mutations in DNA-repair genes (i.e., BRCA1/2, ATM, Fanconi Anemia genes and CHEK2).1 Of 49 men with prostate …
Permanent link to this article: https://inheritedcancer.net/4nlw2016/
A study of over 1800 individuals with a mutation in one of the Lynch Syndrome genes was recently completed to assess whether aspirin and ibuprofen use may reduce colon cancer risk. Results showed that in those who took aspirin or ibuprofen for between 1 month and 4.9 years, the colon cancer risks were lower than …
Permanent link to this article: https://inheritedcancer.net/6nls2015/
More frequently, cancer drugs are being developed to treat tumors based on their molecular make-up. PARP inhibitors are the first class of drugs specifically developed to treat BRCA-related tumors through targeting the DNA repair pathway. The PARP Inhibitors target this pathway and cause cancer cells to die while healthy cells are spared. Although PARP inhibitors …
Permanent link to this article: https://inheritedcancer.net/2nlw2015/
It has been established that women who carry a germline BRCA mutation face breast cancer risks of 60-70% in their lifetime. After an initial breast cancer diagnosis, these women face a high risk for contralateral breast cancer. Some women with BRCA mutations move forward with contralateral mastectomy when they develop their first breast cancer diagnosis (as …
Permanent link to this article: https://inheritedcancer.net/1nlw2014/
Over the last few years, a number of studies have suggested that men with germline BRCA mutations (especially BRCA2) have poorer outcomes when they develop prostate cancer. In fact, a recent study of 2019 patients with prostate cancer, including 18 BRCA1 carriers, 61 BRCA2 carriers, and 1940 noncarriers indicated that germline mutations were more frequently …
Permanent link to this article: https://inheritedcancer.net/3nls2013/
Some evidence suggests that individuals with BRCA mutations who develop pancreatic cancer may benefit from specific chemotherapy regimens. In a recent review of this topic, Kim et al reported on a study of 5 patients with BRCA mutations (4 BRCA2 and 1 BRCA1) who were treated with a platinum-based chemotherapy regimen.1 Of these patients, 3 …
Permanent link to this article: https://inheritedcancer.net/1nlw2013/
