What does an ambiguous BRCA1 or BRCA2 test result mean?
If genetic testing shows a change in BRCA1 or BRCA2 that has not been previously associated with cancer in other people, the person’s test result may be interpreted as “ambiguous” (uncertain). One study found that 10 percent of women who underwent BRCA1 and BRCA2 mutation testing had this type of ambiguous result .
Because everyone has genetic differences that are not associated with an increased risk of disease, it is sometimes not known whether a specific DNA change affects a person’s risk of developing cancer. As more research is conducted and more people are tested for BRCA1 or BRCA2 changes, scientists will learn more about these changes and cancer risk.
Related Articles
- What are BRCA1 and BRCA2?
- How do BRCA1 and BRCA2 gene mutations affect a person's risk of cancer?
- Do inherited mutations in other genes increase the risk of breast and/or ovarian tumors?
- Are specific mutations in BRCA1 and BRCA2 more common in certain populations?
- Are genetic tests available to detect BRCA1 and BRCA2 mutations, and how are they performed?
- How do people know if they should consider genetic testing for BRCA1 and BRCA2 mutations?
- How much does BRCA1 and BRCA2 mutation testing cost?
- What does a positive BRCA1 or BRCA2 test result mean?
- What does a negative BRCA1 or BRCA2 test result mean?
- What does an ambiguous BRCA1 or BRCA2 test result mean?
- What are the options for a person who has a positive test result?
- What are some of the benefits of genetic testing for breast and ovarian cancer risk?
- What are some of the risks of genetic testing for breast and ovarian cancer risk?
- What can happen when genetic test results are placed in medical records?
- What is genetic discrimination, and are there laws to protect people from this type of discrimination?
- In general, what factors increase or decrease the chance of developing breast cancer and/or ovarian cancer?