Definition

The PTEN gene encodes a tumor suppressor protein that prevents cells from growing and dividing uncontrollably. Patients usually develop numerous hamartomas of the skin and mucous membranes by their late 20s; the risk of breast, thyroid and endometrial cancer is markedly increased. Some patients develop a rare brain tumor (Lhermitte-Duclos disease) and macrocephaly.

Gene/region analyzed

PTEN - Exon 1, PTEN - Exon 2, PTEN - Exon 3, PTEN - Exon 4, PTEN - Exon 5, PTEN - Exon 6, PTEN - Exon 7, PTEN - Exon 8, PTEN - Exon 9

Method

Sequence analysis

Accepted sample types

EDTA blood, AF, CVS

Inheritance

Hereditary, autosomal dominant (AD); prevalence approximately 1/200,000.

Related Tests

Inheritance Patterns

Describes how a genetic condition is passed on within a family. There are five main patterns

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Carrier (Heterozygous / Homozygous)

Why it matters: In autosomal recessive inheritance, when each parent is a carrier (while both appear healthy), the chance of their child being born with the disease is 25% in each

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VUS (Variant of Uncertain Significance)

This is the situation where the test has detected a change in the DNA, but the role of this change in the development of disease is unconfirmed.

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How to Read a Genetic Test Result (Positive / Negative / VUS)

A genetic test result falls into three main categories

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Types of Genetic Tests

A genetic test is a type of medical test that detects changes in genes, chromosomes or proteins. Today there are more than 77,000 genetic tests available.

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