A review on the molecular diagnostics of Lynch syndrome: A central role for the pathology laboratory

Margot G.F. van Lier, Anja Wagner, Monique E. van Leerdam, Katharina Biermann, Ernst J. Kuipers, Ewout W. Steyerberg, Hendrikus Jan Dubbink, Winand N.M. Dinjens*

*Corresponding author for this work

Research output: Contribution to journalReview articlepeer-review

65 Citations (Scopus)

Abstract

Lynch syndrome (LS) is caused by mutations in mismatch repair genes and is characterized by a high cumulative risk for the development of mainly colorectal carcinoma and endometrial carcinoma. Early detection of LS is important since surveillance can reduce morbidity and mortality. However, the diagnosis of LS is complicated by the absence of a pre-morbid phenotype and germline mutation analysis is expensive and time consuming. Therefore it is standard practice to precede germline mutation analysis by a molecular diagnostic work-up of tumours, guided by clinical and pathological criteria, to select patients for germline mutation analysis. In this review we address these molecular analyses, the central role for the pathologist in the selection of patients for germline diagnostics of LS, as well as the molecular basis of LS.

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)181-197
Number of pages17
JournalJournal of Cellular and Molecular Medicine
Volume14
Issue number1-2
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - Jan 2010
Externally publishedYes

ASJC Scopus Subject Areas

  • Molecular Medicine
  • Cell Biology

Keywords

  • BRAF mutation analysis
  • Immunohistochemistry
  • Lynch syndrome
  • Mismatch repair genes
  • MLH1 promoter methylation assay
  • Molecular pathology
  • MSI analysis
  • Review

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