Pheochromocytoma: Impact of genetic testing on clinical practice in Vietnam
2021
Introduction: Germline mutations in predisposing genes have been found in 30-40% of pheochromocytoma/paraganglioma patients. Screening for inherited genetic mutations provide clinicians with mutation-positive patient management strategies in addition to identifying family members at risk of disease. However, genetic testing for pheochromocytoma has not been performed widely in Vietnam.
Methods: Seven patients diagnosed with pheochromocytoma in Vietnam underwent germline genetic testing in known pheochromocytoma-associated genes by direct sequencing. When a germline mutation was identified the first-degree relatives were counseled and offered genetic testing for the inherited mutation.
Results: Mutations were found in five of seven cases and all mutations were in RET proto-oncogene codon 634 indicating a high risk of developing aggressive medullary thyroid cancer and in some cases leading to prophylactic thyroidectomy as recommended.
Conclusions: Genetic testing plays an essential role in the clinical management of pheochromocytoma patients. Genetic results have significantly changed the clinical approach in these patients and identified ‘at risk’ family members.
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