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The role of prophylactic salpingo-oophorectomy in women who carry mutations of the BRCA genes

University of Newcastle-upon-Tyne, UK.

Tito Lopes, FRCOG, Consultant Gynaecological Oncologist

Queen Elizabeth Hospital, Gateshead, UK.

Richard J Edmondson, MD

Consultant and Senior Lecturer in Gynaecological Oncology, Northern Gynaecological Oncology Centre, Queen Elizabeth Hospital, Sheriff Hill, Gateshead, NE9 6SX, UK. email: richard.edmondson{at}ghnt.nhs.uk (corresponding author)

There is increasing awareness among women and healthcare professionals of the increased risk of cancer related to certain genetic traits; in particular, mutations of the BRCA genes and their predisposition towards breast and ovarian cancer. It is not always clear, however, how best to manage women with these familial tendencies. In this article we discuss the implications of carrying a mutation in one of these genes and focus on the role and timing of risk-reducing surgery. We also examine the available evidence regarding the use of hormone replacement therapy after surgery in these women.

Keywords Keywords / BRCA genes / hormone replacement therapy / prophylactic surgery / oophorectomy / ovarian cancer