HomeLab TestsBRCA Genetic Test
Back to Lab Tests
BRCA Genetic Test
Reviewed by Medicinsk Expert•Last updated: 2026-10-22•Lab Tests

BRCA Genetic Test

The BRCA genetic test identifies harmful mutations in the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes, which are tumor suppressor genes associated with an increased risk of certain cancers.

What is a BRCA genetic test?

BRCA is short for "breast cancer gene." These genes are tumor suppressors, meaning they provide instructions for making proteins that repair damaged DNA and prevent cells from dividing too quickly. If you have harmful variations in these genes, they may stop working, potentially leading to uncontrolled cell growth and cancer.

What is it used for?

The test identifies harmful changes in BRCA1 or BRCA2 that increase the risk of:

  • Breast cancer (in both females and males)
  • Ovarian cancer
  • Prostate cancer
  • Pancreatic cancer

Why do I need a BRCA genetic test?

Because harmful BRCA variations are rare (affecting about 0.2% of the population), testing is not recommended for everyone. You may be a candidate if you have a strong family history of:

  • Female breast cancer under age 50
  • Triple negative breast cancer under age 60
  • Male breast cancer
  • Ovarian, fallopian tube, or peritoneal cancer
  • Metastatic prostate cancer
  • Pancreatic cancer

Testing is also considered for those of Ashkenazi Jewish descent, as BRCA variations are more common in this population.

What happens during a BRCA genetic test?

The test uses a sample of blood, saliva, or cells from the inside of your cheek. A health care professional will collect the sample, or you may use an at-home saliva kit. It is highly recommended to meet with a genetic counselor before and after the test to discuss the implications of the results.

What do the results mean?

  • Negative (normal): No harmful changes were found.
  • Uncertain (VUS): A variant was found, but its impact on cancer risk is currently unknown.
  • Positive (pathogenic): A harmful variant was found that is known to increase the risk of certain cancers.

A positive result does not guarantee you will develop cancer. If you test positive, your provider may recommend more frequent cancer screenings, specific medications to lower risk, or preventative surgery.

Frequently Asked Questions

Many U.S. insurers cover BRCA testing when criteria such as personal or family cancer history, Ashkenazi Jewish ancestry, or early‑onset disease are met. Obtain a pre‑authorization letter from your provider, and if coverage is denied, ask the lab about financial assistance programs or consider a self‑pay option with a discounted rate.
Most commercial laboratories report results within 2–4 weeks after the sample is received, but turnaround can be longer if additional sequencing or family‑history analysis is needed.
VUS means a genetic change was found but its impact on cancer risk is unclear. Discuss the finding with a genetic counselor; they may recommend monitoring based on family history, consider re‑testing in the future as databases evolve, and avoid making major medical decisions solely on the VUS.
Yes. Testing after a cancer diagnosis can guide treatment choices (e.g., PARP inhibitors for BRCA‑positive ovarian or breast cancer) and inform surveillance for second primary cancers, as well as help relatives assess their own risk.
Source: MedlinePlus, National Library of Medicine

MedlinePlus brings together authoritative health information from the National Library of Medicine (NLM), the National Institutes of Health (NIH), and other government agencies and health-related organizations.

kontakt@hittavard.se

Ⓒ 2024. Alla rättigheter förbehålls av juxt ab

Sök
Om ossVillkor och policyVanliga frågorKontakta oss