title: Genetic testing in pheochromocytoma- and paraganglioma-associated syndromes.
abstract: Genetic understanding of pheochromocytoma (PHEO) and paraganglioma (PGL) syndromes has recently expanded with the identification of the involvement of the mitochondrial complex II peptides, namely the succinate dehydrogenase subunit B (SDHB), subunit C (SDHC), and subunit D (SDHD). In patients with PHEO and/or PGL genetic testing for germline mutations in SDHD and SDHB has been recommended, in addition to the PHEO susceptibility genes VHL and RET. After careful clinical assessment of the patient, suspected familial disease may direct the clinician to the appropriate gene for testing. In the absence of obvious features of familial disease, the decision regarding the appropriate gene for testing is more difficult. Such testing can be costly and time consuming, but a rational prioritization of gene testing can streamline the process. Therefore in order to achieve this for apparently sporadic cases we propose a decision matrix based on site of tumor, functionality, and age at presentation.
authors.affiliation: Cancer Genetics, Kolling Institute of Medical Research, Royal North Shore Hospital and University of Sydney, St Leonards, NSW 2065, Australia.
authors.forename: Diana E
authors.initials: DE
authors.lastname: Benn
authors.forename: Anne Louise
authors.initials: AL
authors.lastname: Richardson
authors.forename: Deborah J
authors.initials: DJ
authors.lastname: Marsh
authors.forename: Bruce G
authors.initials: BG
authors.lastname: Robinson
mesh_terms: D000310:Adrenal Gland Neoplasms / Q000235:genetics*; D020022:Genetic Predisposition to Disease; D005820:Genetic Testing; D018095:Germ-Line Mutation; D006801:Humans; D010235:Paraganglioma / Q000235:genetics*; D010673:Pheochromocytoma / Q000235:genetics*