The risk of endocrine interventions in carriers of a genetic predisposition for breast and gynecologic cancers: recommendations of the German Consortium for Hereditary Breast and Ovarian Cancer

Abstract

Purpose

To support doctors in counselling women with genetic predisposition for breast or gynecologic cancers on endocrine interventions.

Methods

Evidence on the safety of endocrine interventions for fertility treatment, contraception, hormone replacement therapy after risk-reducing salpingo-oophorectomy (RRSO) or treatment of symptoms during peri- and postmenopause was analysed for carriers of probably pathogenic and pathogenic variants in BRCA1 or BRCA2 (BRCA1/2-pV), in other breast and ovarian cancer genes and the Lynch Syndrome. Cancer risks were compared with data on risks for the general population.

Results

Data on risk modulation of endocrine interventions in women with genetic predisposition is limited. Ovarian hyperstimulation for fertility treatment may be performed. Oral contraceptives should not be used to reduce ovarian cancer risk in BRCA1/2-pV carriers. Premenopausal BRCA1/2-pV carriers and carriers of pV in Lynch Syndrome genes should be offered hormone replacement therapy (HRT) after RRSO, to prevent diseases caused by estrogen deficiency.

Conclusion

Effect direction and strength of risk modulation by endocrine interventions is similar to the general population. Participation of individuals at risk in prospective registries is recommended.