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Lynch Syndrome

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on Nov 3, 2024.

What is Lynch syndrome?

Lynch syndrome is a genetic disorder that increases your risk for certain cancers. Lynch syndrome type 1 increases your risk for colorectal cancer. Type 2 increases your risk for stomach, gallbladder duct, liver, upper urinary tract, skin, and brain cancer. Women with type 2 Lynch syndrome are also at increased risk for ovarian or endometrial cancer.

How is Lynch syndrome diagnosed?

Your healthcare provider may suspect you have Lynch syndrome if other members of your family have colorectal cancer. He or she may suspect it if you develop colon or rectal cancer at an early age or often get polyps. A blood test is used to confirm Lynch syndrome. Tell your healthcare provider if you have ever had cancer, and what type you had. Tell him or her if anyone in your family had cancer and when it was first diagnosed. He or she will also need to know if anyone in your family has Lynch syndrome.

What treatment may I need?

Lynch syndrome cannot be treated or cured. You may need treatment such as chemotherapy or radiation if you develop cancer. Treatment will depend on the kind of cancer you have. It will also depend on how advanced the cancer is and where it is located. Surgery is often used to treat colorectal cancer. Part of your colon, rectum, or lymph nodes may be removed to help stop the cancer from spreading. You may need to have more of your colon removed than is usually done to treat colorectal cancer.

What can I do to manage Lynch syndrome and prevent cancer?

When should I contact my healthcare provider?

Care Agreement

You have the right to help plan your care. Learn about your health condition and how it may be treated. Discuss treatment options with your healthcare providers to decide what care you want to receive. You always have the right to refuse treatment. The above information is an educational aid only. It is not intended as medical advice for individual conditions or treatments. Talk to your doctor, nurse or pharmacist before following any medical regimen to see if it is safe and effective for you.

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Further information

Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.