Genetic predisposition to cancer: the consequences of a delayed diagnosis of Gorlin syndrome.

This report outlines a case of Gorlin syndrome, the diagnosis of which was delayed for many years, and raises a number of important issues. These are the spectrum of late radiotherapy effects, particularly after treatment for benign disease, and the importance of considering the possibility of the presence of a genetic syndrome predisposing to cancer in all individuals before starting any treatment. As our knowledge of genetic syndromes expands, this will become increasingly important. Finally, if a genetic predisposition to cancer is suspected, consideration should be given to obtaining a blood sample from the affected patient for DNA storage, particularly if their prognosis is limited. Currently, genetic testing can only be instituted in most families by first obtaining DNA from an individual affected by cancer, as most genetic mutations are unique to a family. If all relatives with cancer have died, then, at this time, genetic testing cannot usually be attempted, unless such samples have previously been stored.