American Board of Internal Medicine (ABIM) Certification Practice Exam

Which familial condition is NOT typically associated with BRCA genetic testing?

1. Bilateral breast cancer

2. Breast cancer in multiple family members

3. Single occurrence of colon cancer

4. Breast cancer in male family members

The correct answer is: Single occurrence of colon cancer

In the context of BRCA genetic testing, which is primarily aimed at assessing the risk for breast and ovarian cancers, certain familial conditions are more closely associated with the presence of BRCA mutations. The familial conditions, such as bilateral breast cancer, breast cancer in multiple family members, and breast cancer in male family members, indicate a heightened risk due to hereditary factors linked to BRCA mutations. Bilateral breast cancer aligns well with BRCA-related risks, as individuals with BRCA1 or BRCA2 mutations have a significantly increased likelihood of developing cancer in both breasts. Similarly, breast cancer in multiple family members suggests a hereditary pattern that is characteristic of familial breast and ovarian cancer syndromes associated with BRCA mutations. Additionally, the occurrence of breast cancer in male family members further implies a genetic predisposition, as BRCA mutations can increase the risk of breast cancer in men, though it is less common than in women. In contrast, the single occurrence of colon cancer does not have a direct link to BRCA mutations. While BRCA genes are focused mainly on breast and ovarian cancer risk, colon cancer does not typically indicate a BRCA-related hereditary syndrome. Instead, colon cancer may be more relevant to other genetic conditions, such as Lynch syndrome, which involves mutations