Genetic predisposition to childhood cancer

Abstract

The etiology of childhood cancer remains largely unknown. Recent evidence suggests that genetic factors play a substantial role in pediatric tumorigenesis. Unlike adult cancers, pediatric cancers typically have a higher prevalence of germline pathogenic variants in cancer predisposition genes. Inherited cancer predisposition syndromes account for approximately 10% of all childhood cancers. Over the years, the diagnosis of cancer predisposition syndromes was based on clinical suspicion prompting referral to a specialized geneticist. However, advances in molecular technologies have led to a shift toward a “genotype-first” approach. Identification of genetic variants related to cancer predisposition enables tailored treatment, improves clinical outcome, optimizes surveillance, and facilitates genetic counseling of the affected child and the family.