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
