Genetic Counseling and Testing
The Genetic Counseling and Testing Department at Burjeel Cancer Institute offers comprehensive services to help patients understand the role of genetics in cancer risk, diagnosis, and treatment. By identifying genetic mutations that may increase cancer risk, we provide patients with valuable information for making informed decisions about prevention, early detection, and personalized treatment options. Our genetic counselors work closely with oncologists to integrate genetic insights into personalized cancer care plans.
Conditions We Support
We provide genetic counseling and testing for a range of conditions and cancer types, including:
- Hereditary breast and ovarian cancer (BRCA1/BRCA2 mutations)
- Lynch syndrome (associated with colorectal, endometrial, and other cancers)
- Familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP)
- Hereditary melanoma
- Li-Fraumeni syndrome (increased risk for multiple cancers)
- Multiple endocrine neoplasia (MEN)
- Retinoblastoma (childhood eye cancer)
- Other hereditary cancer syndromes
Genetic Testing Services
We offer a range of genetic tests that can help identify mutations that increase cancer risk or inform treatment options:
Cancer Risk Assessment
Genetic tests to identify inherited mutations, such as BRCA1, BRCA2, MLH1, MSH2, and APC, which increase the risk of cancers like breast, ovarian, colorectal, and pancreatic cancer.
Tumor Genomic Profiling
Testing of cancer cells to identify mutations that can guide targeted therapies and personalized treatment plans.
Next-Generation Sequencing (NGS)
Advanced sequencing technologies that analyze multiple genes at once, providing a comprehensive genetic profile of the patient's cancer.
Pharmacogenomic Testing
Testing that helps predict how a patient's body will respond to certain cancer treatments based on their genetic makeup, allowing for personalized treatment plans.
Prenatal and Preconception Testing
For families with a history of hereditary cancer syndromes, we offer testing to assess the risk of passing genetic mutations to future generations.
Our Approach to Genetic Counseling and Testing
At Burjeel Cancer Institute, our approach to genetic counseling and testing is centered around providing patients with personalized care and comprehensive information:
Personalized Risk Assessment
Our genetic counselors assess family history, personal medical history, and genetic test results to determine an individual's risk of developing certain cancers.
Multidisciplinary Collaboration
Our genetic counselors work closely with oncologists, surgeons, radiation oncologists, and nurse navigators to integrate genetic information into a patient's overall cancer care plan.
Informed Decision Making
Genetic testing can provide critical insights that guide decisions regarding cancer prevention, early detection, and personalized treatment. Our counselors help patients understand the implications of their genetic results and navigate their treatment options.
Family-Based Care
We offer genetic counseling to family members of individuals with hereditary cancer syndromes to assess their cancer risk and recommend screening or preventive measures.
Diagnostic and Testing Tools
Our genetic testing services use advanced technology and tools to provide comprehensive insights into cancer risk and treatment:
Next-Generation Sequencing (NGS)
Offers high-throughput, precise analysis of multiple genes simultaneously to identify mutations that can inform cancer treatment or risk.
Single-Gene Testing
Tests for specific mutations, such as BRCA1, BRCA2, and TP53, which are associated with higher risks of certain cancers.
Whole Exome Sequencing (WES)
A comprehensive test that sequences all protein-coding regions of the genome, useful for identifying mutations in rare hereditary cancer syndromes.
Gene Panels
Testing for multiple genes that are known to be linked to hereditary cancer syndromes, allowing for more comprehensive risk assessments.
Supportive Care and Patient Services
Our genetic counseling and testing services are designed to support patients and their families throughout their cancer journey:
Pre-Test Counseling
Our genetic counselors work with patients to discuss their personal and family medical history, the potential outcomes of genetic testing, and the implications of test results.
Post-Test Counseling
After testing, we provide detailed explanations of the results, their implications for cancer risk or treatment, and the next steps for care or prevention.
Family Counseling
Genetic counseling for family members who may be at risk of inheriting the same mutations, including discussions of preventive strategies and testing options.
Psychosocial Support
Emotional support and counseling are available to help patients and families cope with the stress and uncertainty that often accompanies genetic testing and cancer diagnosis.
Patient Navigation
Our team helps patients navigate genetic testing, interpret results, and integrate findings into their personalized care plans.
Advanced Genetic Testing Techniques
We offer advanced genetic testing services to ensure that patients receive the most accurate and comprehensive results:
Multi-Gene Panels
Comprehensive testing that examines multiple genes known to be associated with increased cancer risk, providing a broader picture of hereditary risk factors.
Tumor Genomic Profiling
Advanced testing of tumor tissue to identify genetic mutations driving cancer growth, helping guide personalized treatment strategies, including targeted therapies.
Pharmacogenomics
Testing that helps determine how a patient's genetic makeup affects their response to certain cancer treatments, allowing for more personalized and effective care.
Patient Journey
Patients undergoing genetic counseling and testing at Burjeel Cancer Institute receive comprehensive care throughout the entire process:
Initial Consultation
A detailed review of the patient's family and personal medical history, followed by a discussion of genetic testing options.
Genetic Testing
Based on the consultation, a tailored genetic test is recommended to assess cancer risk or guide treatment.
Results Interpretation
Once the test results are available, our genetic counselors explain the findings and discuss their implications for the patient's treatment or cancer risk management.
Follow-Up Care
Ongoing monitoring, preventive screenings, and additional consultations are provided based on the patient's genetic profile and test results.
