Genetic Test for Hereditary Colon Cancer

A new genetic test for colon cancer detects disease-causing mutations in two genes, MLH1 and MSH2, which are responsible for the majority of cases of hereditary colon cancer. The risk of colon cancer in an individual is increased 40 times by one of these mutations, to about 80%, from just 2% for the general population.

The test, called Colaris, was developed by Myriad Genetics, Inc. (Salt Lake City, UT, USA) and utilizes the same DNA sequencing technology used in Myriad's tests for identifying the risk of breast and ovarian cancer. The company states that the technology provides the most accurate assessment of risk to patients based on their genetic makeup.

People who are at high risk for colon cancer, following a positive Colaris test, can have earlier and more frequent exams and have precancerous polyps removed, said Gregory Critchfield, M.D., president of Myriad Genetics. This course of action has the potential to totally prevent colon cancer.