Lynch syndrome is an inherited predisposition to several types of cancer. In this test-specific episode of the "Answers From the Lab" podcast, Wei Shen, Ph.D., and Rhianna Urban, M.S., CGC, explain how Mayo Clinic Laboratories' gene panel (TEST ID: LYNCP) establishes a diagnosis of Lynch syndrome, to guide targeted cancer surveillance.

"We can tailor screening recommendations to the individual's specific cancer risk profile," Dr. Shen says. "Knowledge of genetic cancer risk can empower individuals to make informed decisions about their health care and lifestyle choices."

Lynch syndrome confers a particularly high risk for colon and endometrial cancers. The National Comprehensive Cancer Network recommends testing for Lynch syndrome for patients under age 50 who have a diagnosis of either of those cancers. Mayo Clinic Laboratories' next generation sequencing panel tests whole blood samples for variants in five genes associated with Lynch syndrome.

Some of those genes pose particular challenges. Mayo Clinic Laboratories adds supplemental assays to cover additional variants and genomics regions. Several other tests, including a unique test to identify hypermethylation, are available if the suspicion of Lynch syndrome isn't clear.

"Our commitment to providing complete and accurate results motivates us to go beyond the standard laboratory testing process," Dr. Shen says. "Performing all these tests in the same laboratory allows us to integrate the results, to provide the most comprehensive testing and interpretation for patients."

Listen to learn more about Mayo Clinic Laboratories' Lynch syndrome panel.

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Testing

LYNCP   | Lynch Syndrome Panel, Varies

Lynch Syndrome testing algorithm

Additional testing

CRCGP   | Hereditary Gastrointestinal Cancer Panel, Varies

FMTT   | Familial Variant, Targeted Testing, Varies

MLHPB   | MLH1 Hypermethylation Analysis, Blood

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