Quest Diagnostics has announced the availability of BRCAvantage, a suite of four new lab-developed genetic tests that identify mutations in BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes, which are associated with increased risk of inherited breast and ovarian cancers. The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force, American College of Medical Genetics, American Society of Clinical Oncology, National Comprehensive Cancer Network, and American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, among others, have issued evidence-based guidelines for BRCA testing.
An estimated 5% to 10% of female breast cancers are due to inherited gene mutations, with BRCA1 and BRCA2 gene mutations the most commonly identified cause. BRCA1 and BRCA2 mutations are also associated with increased inherited risk of ovarian, male breast, and other cancers. The BRCAvantage test is performed using next-generation sequencing and multiplex ligation-dependent probe amplification to detect all published deleterious mutations in BRCA1 and BRCA2. If a gene variant is identified, it is cross-referenced with mutational databases to promote reliable clinical interpretation.
Clinicians can access results of BRCAvantage through the company’s secure Care360 connectivity platform. As part of the BRCAvantage offering, Quest will provide access to third-party genetic counselors to clinicians and patients and a free, concierge-level pre-authorization service that helps expedite access to insurance-covered BRCA testing. Patients can submit blood specimen for testing at Quest’s patient service centers. Learn more about BRCAvantage.
