Clinical cancer genetic susceptibility analysis typically proceeds sequentially beginning with the most likely causative gene. The process is time consuming and the yield is low particularly for families with unusual patterns of cancer. We determined the results of in parallel mutation analysis of a large cancer-associated gene panel. We performed deletion analysis and sequenced the coding regions of 45 genes (8 oncogenes and 37 tumor suppressor or DNA repair genes) in 48 childhood cancer patients who also (1) were diagnosed with a second malignancy under age 30, (2) have a sibling diagnosed with cancer under age 30 and/or (3) have a major congenital anomaly or developmental delay. Deleterious mutations were identified in 6 of 48 (13%) families, 4 of which met the sibling criteria. Mutations were identified in genes previously implicated in both dominant and recessive childhood syndromes including SMARCB1, PMS2, and TP53. No pathogenic deletions were identified. This approach has provided efficient identification of childhood cancer susceptibility mutations and will have greater utility as additional cancer susceptibility genes are identified. Integrating parallel analysis of large gene panels into clinical testing will speed results and increase diagnostic yield. The failure to detect mutations in 87% of families highlights that a number of childhood cancer susceptibility genes remain to be discovered.
Background Anaplastic ganglioglioma is a rare malignant brain tumor associated with high morbidity and mortality. The diagnosis of a central nervous system malignancy in the early 3rd trimester presents management challenges to both neurosurgeons and obstetricians. Case A 33-year-old woman, gravida 2 para 1, presented at 28 6/7 weeks with four months of worsening headaches, nausea, vomiting, and mental status changes due to a 7.5 cm anaplastic ganglioglioma. Maternal deterioration necessitated subtotal tumor debulking allowing prolongation of the gestation to 34 6/7 weeks. After delivery, the patient underwent further resection, followed by chemotherapy and radiation. Both mother and infant are well. Discussion This case underscores the importance of timely diagnostic imaging in pregnant women and demonstrates subtotal tumor debulking as a viable means of prolonging gestation.
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