Clinical Management of Families with Hereditary Colorectal Cancer Syndromes

Hereditary colorectal cancer syndromes can be associated with a lifetime risk of colorectal cancer of >70% in the absence of specialized surveillance. Diagnosing a genetic predisposition to cancer allows clinicians to tailor cancer prevention strategies for patients and families at highest risk. Once a genetic syndrome has been identified in a family, communication with family members, timely implementation of screening tests and/or surgeries, and psychosocial support are all instrumental for effective cancer prevention. Molecular screening of tumors, computerized risk assessment models, and genetic testing can help clinicians identify individuals at risk for hereditary cancer syndromes. This review discusses some of the complexities involved in the diagnosis and management of families with hereditary colorectal cancer syndromes and provides strategies for coordinating clinical care.