Here are some of the preventive steps you and your doctor can take if your genetic test indicates a risk of developing an inherited cancer.
FAP Risk Reduction
Increased Surveillance
- Annual flexible sigmoidoscopy beginning between ages 10-12.
- Following a prophylactic subtotal colectomy, flexible sigmoidoscopy of remaining ileal pouch and rectum every six months to three years, depending on the number of polyps found on previous exam.
Surgical Options
- Prophylactic total colectomy is advised. The timing of surgery is based on the number and size of adenomatous polyps.
AFAP Risk Reduction
Increased Surveillance
- Colonoscopy every one to three years beginning in the late teens or mid-twenties.
- Following a prophylactic subtotal colectomy (if necessary), flexible sigmoidoscopy of remaining ileal pouch and rectal epithelium every six months to three years, depending on the number of polyps found on previous exam.
Preventive Surgery
- Prophylactic colectomy may not be necessary for a person diagnosed with AFAP, though it should be considered on an individual basis depending on the number of polyps.
MAP Risk Reduction
Management of patients with MAP should be similar to that of patients with FAP or AFAP, depending on the number of polyps that are present-no specific guidelines for MAP have been established.
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A genetic test for adenomatous polyposis
syndromes
