Purpose of This PDQ Summary
This PDQ cancer information summary for health professionals provides comprehensive, peer-reviewed, evidence-based information about the genetics of skin cancer. This summary is reviewed regularly and updated as necessary by the Cancer Genetics Editorial Board.
The following information is included in this summary:
- Risk factors for skin cancer, including family history.
- Major genes associated with skin cancer risk.
- Screening and risk modification for skin cancer.
- Genetic testing for hereditary skin cancer.
The summary also contains level-of-evidence designations. These designations are intended to help readers assess the strength of the evidence in relation to specific studies or strategies. A description of how level-of-evidence designations are made is described in detail in the PDQ summary Cancer Genetics Overview.
This summary is intended to provide clinicians a framework (1) for discussing genetic testing, screening, and risk modification options with individuals at risk for hereditary skin cancer and (2) for making referrals to cancer risk counseling services. It does not provide formal guidelines or recommendations for making health care decisions. Information in this summary should not be used as a basis for reimbursement determinations.
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