BRCAs tests
The genetic test for BRCAs is a simple laboratory blood test, but one with the particularity of having to be done first on a relative that has (or had) cancer.
The reason is that BRCAs genes are large and complex to analyze. By looking first at someone with the disease, so someone with high probability of having the mutation, we increase the chance of finding that familial mutation. Once that is done, the DNA of the person being tested can be compared, concentrating on that specific location and mutation.
The genetic test works by looking for changes in the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes, to compare them with mutations already identified by the scientific community as linked with hereditary breast cancer.
Contrary to common perception that the test is fast and conclusive, the genetic test can take a long time and has limitations. When the results arrive, a doctor at the specialized genetic clinic will interpret them and discuss them with you.
About 80% of all hereditary breast cancers are caused by known BRCA mutations.
