Which specialist performs a hereditary cancer panel test?

Before testing, the genetics team reviews your personal cancer history and the pattern of cancer in your relatives. They discuss what the panel can examine, possible result types and the information you may or may not learn. A blood or saliva sample is commonly collected according to the laboratory's instructions.

The result may identify an inherited change, find no relevant change, or be unclear. A result does not by itself diagnose every cancer or predict exactly what will happen. The genetics specialist explains whether the finding changes screening, prevention or family discussions.

Write down the types of cancer diagnosed in close relatives, their ages when diagnosed and any available pathology or genetic reports. Tell the specialist about ancestry, previous genetic tests and current cancer treatment. Ask how results will be shared and whether relatives should receive separate counselling rather than interpreting your report alone.

Contact the genetics or oncology team if your family history changes, if a relative receives a new genetic result, or if you have questions before consenting to testing. Seek urgent care for new severe symptoms such as major bleeding, severe breathlessness or sudden neurological changes; genetic counselling is not a substitute for urgent assessment.

Why is this panel being offered? Which genes are included? What could each type of result mean for my screening or treatment? Who can access the report? Should my relatives arrange their own genetic counselling?