Our Summary

This study looks at whether a preventative surgery called risk-reducing salpingo-oophorectomy (RRSO) - which involves removing the ovaries and fallopian tubes - reduces the risk of breast cancer in women with BRCA1 and BRCA2 gene mutations. These mutations increase a woman’s risk of developing breast and ovarian cancer. The researchers followed a large group of women with these mutations for around 5 years. They found that the surgery didn’t reduce the risk of breast cancer for women with the BRCA1 mutation. However, for women with the BRCA2 mutation, there seemed to be some benefit, especially if more than 5 years had passed since the surgery. These findings could be helpful when advising women with these gene mutations about their options for reducing their cancer risk.

FAQs

  1. What is risk-reducing salpingo-oophorectomy (RRSO)?
  2. Does salpingo-oophorectomy reduce the risk of breast cancer in women with BRCA1 and BRCA2 gene mutations?
  3. Are there any differences in the impact of salpingo-oophorectomy on women with BRCA1 versus BRCA2 mutations?

Doctor’s Tip

One helpful tip a doctor might give a patient considering salpingo-oophorectomy is to thoroughly discuss the risks and benefits of the surgery, especially in relation to their specific genetic mutation. It’s important to have a clear understanding of how the surgery may impact their risk of developing breast cancer and make an informed decision based on individual factors and preferences. Additionally, regular follow-up care and screenings will still be necessary even after undergoing the surgery.

Suitable For

Patients who are typically recommended salpingo-oophorectomy are those who have a high risk of developing ovarian and fallopian tube cancer, such as those with BRCA1 and BRCA2 gene mutations. Additionally, women with a family history of these cancers or other high-risk factors may also be recommended this surgery. In some cases, salpingo-oophorectomy may also be recommended as a preventative measure for reducing the risk of breast cancer, as seen in the study mentioned above. Ultimately, the decision to undergo this surgery should be made in consultation with a healthcare provider and based on individual risk factors and preferences.

Timeline

Before the salpingo-oophorectomy:

  1. Genetic testing reveals the presence of BRCA1 or BRCA2 gene mutations, indicating an increased risk of breast and ovarian cancer.
  2. The patient discusses their options with their healthcare provider, including the possibility of undergoing a risk-reducing salpingo-oophorectomy.
  3. The patient undergoes counseling to understand the implications of the surgery and its potential benefits and risks.
  4. The patient decides to proceed with the surgery and schedules the procedure.

After the salpingo-oophorectomy:

  1. The patient undergoes the surgical procedure to remove their ovaries and fallopian tubes.
  2. The patient experiences a recovery period, which may involve pain, discomfort, and restrictions on physical activity.
  3. Follow-up appointments are scheduled to monitor the patient’s recovery and address any concerns or complications.
  4. The patient may experience menopausal symptoms due to the removal of their ovaries, which may require hormone replacement therapy.
  5. The patient undergoes regular screenings and monitoring for breast cancer and other related health concerns.
  6. Long-term follow-up studies are conducted to assess the impact of the surgery on the patient’s risk of developing breast cancer.

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. What is salpingo-oophorectomy and how does it reduce the risk of cancer in women with BRCA1 and BRCA2 gene mutations?
  2. What are the potential risks and complications associated with salpingo-oophorectomy?
  3. How long is the recovery period after undergoing a salpingo-oophorectomy?
  4. Will I need hormone replacement therapy after the surgery?
  5. How often will I need follow-up appointments and screenings after the surgery?
  6. What are the alternative options for reducing my cancer risk if I choose not to undergo salpingo-oophorectomy?
  7. How will salpingo-oophorectomy impact my fertility and options for family planning?
  8. Are there any specific lifestyle changes or precautions I should take after the surgery?
  9. How will salpingo-oophorectomy affect my overall quality of life?
  10. Are there any ongoing research or clinical trials related to salpingo-oophorectomy and its effects on cancer risk in women with BRCA1 and BRCA2 gene mutations?

Reference

Authors: Mavaddat N, Antoniou AC, Mooij TM, Hooning MJ, Heemskerk-Gerritsen BA; GENEPSO; Noguès C, Gauthier-Villars M, Caron O, Gesta P, Pujol P, Lortholary A; EMBRACE; Barrowdale D, Frost D, Evans DG, Izatt L, Adlard J, Eeles R, Brewer C, Tischkowitz M, Henderson A, Cook J, Eccles D; HEBON; van Engelen K, Mourits MJE, Ausems MGEM, Koppert LB, Hopper JL, John EM, Chung WK, Andrulis IL, Daly MB, Buys SS; kConFab Investigators; Benitez J, Caldes T, Jakubowska A, Simard J, Singer CF, Tan Y, Olah E, Navratilova M, Foretova L, Gerdes AM, Roos-Blom MJ, Van Leeuwen FE, Arver B, Olsson H, Schmutzler RK, Engel C, Kast K, Phillips KA, Terry MB, Milne RL, Goldgar DE, Rookus MA, Andrieu N, Easton DF; IBCCS; kConFab; BCFR. Journal: Breast Cancer Res. 2020 Jan 16;22(1):8. doi: 10.1186/s13058-020-1247-4. PMID: 31948486