Mutations of BRCA genes in hereditary breast and ovarian cancer.

BRCA1 and BRCA2 are the main genetic elements associated with hereditary susceptibility to breast and ovarian cancer that have been isolated to date. DNA analysis can identify carriers of mutations in these genes, who, accordingly, can benefit by adequate clinical programs for the reduction of cancer risk. Unfortunately, the analysis is complicated by the complexity of associated mutation spectra. The procedure for mutation testing in BRCA genes and its limitations are discussed.