Uses for Genetic Testing in Breast Cancer

Banu Arun, MD, explains why genetic testing is important and its intended uses for treatment in patients with breast cancer during the 2019 San Antonio Breast Cancer Symposium.

Banu Arun, MD: Genetic testing is important to identify hereditary cancer mutations in patients with breast cancer, especially BRCA1 and 2, because if patients have these mutations, they could benefit from certain therapies. For example, to prevent contralateral breast cancer bilateral mastectomies. For treatment implications, now we have PARP inhibitors available that can be used in patients with metastatic BRCA-positive breast cancer.