ABSTRACT
M. L. Slattery et al. assessed the risk of developing multiple primaries after a diagnosis of colon carcinoma and determined the impact that having a family history of carcinoma has on carcinoma risk. Colorectal carcinoma is a genetically heterogeneous disease, and a series of genetic events has been described in the evolution of colorectal carcinoma. Familial colorectal carcinoma may include as many as 30% of patients with colorectal carcinoma when both carcinoma and polyps are included in the pedigree. The management of individuals who may be at increased risk for an inherited colorectal carcinoma susceptibility is complex. Knowledge about genetic information can contribute to clinical management at several stages during patient care. Interpretation of genetic tests for colorectal carcinoma is not a straightforward as interpreting a blood sugar test to ascertain whether it is elevated, normal or lowered. Genetic counseling is a dynamic communication process between the patient and the counselor who provides education and support within a multidisciplinary team.
