Genetic testing in ovarian cancer

, genetic testing of germline mutations allows targeted genetic counselling in the patient`s family, identification of individuals at risk and appropriate surveillance management of the patient and her positively tested healthy relatives. Germline as well as somatic mutations in BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes may also play a role in the consideration of the indication of a specific poly-ADP-ribose polymerase inhibitor (PARPi). Somatic mutations in BRCA1 and BRCA2 are found in an additional 5–9% of women with ovarian cancer. Simultaneous testing for germline and somatic mutations will allow for more efficient identification of patients who are potential candidates for one type of PARPi maintenance therapy, while also detecting healthy relatives at high risk of developing breast and ovarian cancer in particular.