What do my Test Results Mean?

Discuss what your test results mean with your doctor or genetic counselor.

The meaning of a positive BRCA1 or BRCA2 test result:

  • A mutation in BRCA1 or BRCA2 has been found
  • You have an increased risk of getting breast and/or ovarian cancer

Not all people with a positive test will develop breast and/or ovarian cancer. Talk to your doctor about preventive measures that are available to reduce your risk. The preventive medical choices available include:

  • Earlier, more frequent and possibly additional screening exams
  • Medications that may decrease your risk (called chemoprevention)
  • Surgery to remove the breasts and/or ovaries so you are not as likely to get cancer in these places (called prophylactic mastectomy and/or oophorectomy).

These are very complicated issues and you may need several appointments to understand the choices well enough to make decisions about what is best for you.

The meaning of a negative test result:

  • Negative test results are more difficult to interpret. The meaning of a negative test result depends on whether a mutation in BRCA1 or BRCA2 was previously found in a family member with cancer.
  • Talk to your doctor or genetic counselor about your estimated risk of breast and/or ovarian cancer

The meaning of "uncertain clinical significance" test results:

  • A mutation in BRCA1 or BRCA2 has been found but it is not known if this means your cancer risk is increased
  • Talk to your doctor or genetic counselor about your estimated risk of breast and/or ovarian cancer