This is the least common of the three hereditary cancer syndromes characterized by an increased risk of ovarian cancer. Findings from one group of investigators suggested that most families with this syndrome are linked to mutation in the BRCA1 gene. Features of familial ovarian cancers. Ovarian cancer in women with familial ovarian cancer occurs at a younger age than sporadic ovarian cancer. The stage distribution is similar to sporadic cases.
Tumors are usually papillary serous carcinomas with similar features to sporadic tumors.
The prognosis for BRCA-associated familial cases appears to be somewhat better than for sporadic cases. Johns Hopkins University. All rights reserved.