In recognition of Colon Cancer Awareness Month, Ambry would like to share the story of Jane and Julie Smith (not their real names) – sisters and cancer survivors. Jane was diagnosed with colon cancer in 2004 at the age of 36. While she was concerned about her diagnosis and family history of ovarian cancer, genetic testing was not widely available …
The world of hereditary cancer testing is complex, but genetic information is crucial for flagging at-risk patients and their relatives. They might just benefit from earlier and more frequent surveillance and/or preventive surgeries. For those individuals who face important and difficult health decisions, genetic counselors are invaluable members …
It’s hard to believe that it has already been a year since we officially launched +RNAinsight, the first paired DNA/RNA genetic test for hereditary cancer. As we reach this milestone, I wanted to share with you why we set out to launch this product and reflect on our progress in finding more answers for patients. Ambry Genetics was founded with …
DNA-based multigene panel testing (MGPT) is a commonly used approach for the detection of patients with or at-risk for inherited cancers. Despite years of advancement in genetic testing, patients may still receive uncertain results or receive a negative result despite having a personal or family history suggestive of hereditary cancer. RNA …
Genetic testing plays a critical role in the delivery of personalized medicine. Take, for instance, hereditary cancer, where genetic testing can help inform treatment and other management decisions for both individuals with an active cancer diagnosis and those at an increased risk for cancer. For the latter, genetic testing helps minimize their …
When it comes to medical questions, sometimes “unknown” is the worst answer you can receive. Uncertainty prevents a family from developing an action plan to combat bad news, or from achieving peace of mind when receiving good news. Yet for many patients who undergo genetic testing due to a suspected hereditary cancer syndrome, they are left …
MSH2 is one of five genes associated with Lynch syndrome, a condition that leaves patients with a significantly increased risk for colorectal and certain other cancers. Using genetic testing to identify patients with Lynch syndrome is important because they can be recommended increased cancer screenings for early detection and prevention. MSH2, …