title: Genetic considerations for a woman's annual gynaecological examination.
abstract: OBJECTIVE
  To provide the physician with an overview of common genetic conditions that should be considered during a women's annual gynaecological assessment to determine the patient's risk or to initiate specific testing or referral to another subspecialty service, depending on personal or family history.
  
  
  METHODS
  This genetic information can be used for patient education and possible disease and/or mutation screening or diagnosis.
  
  
  RESULTS
  The use of this genetic information may allow improved risk-benefit assessment and management at the annual gynaecological examination.
  
  
  METHODS
  Studies published in English up to and including May 2010 were retrieved through searches of PubMed and the Cochrane Library, using appropriate controlled vocabulary (gynaecological diagnosis, genetic inheritance) and key words (genetic risk, genetic mutation, inheritance, family history, uterus, ovary, endometrial, vagina, colon, gastric, renal, breast, cardiac, thrombophilia, diabetes, epilepsy, leiomyomata uteri). Other literature sources were identified through searching the web sites of health technology assessment and health technology assessment-related agencies, clinical practice guideline collections, clinical trial registries, and national and international medical specialty societies.
  
  
  METHODS
  The levels of evidence are not adequate for evidence-based recommendations to be made.
  
  
  RESULTS
  This committee opinion will enhance the use of new genetic knowledge and its application to the annual gynaecological care of women. Risk management and diagnostic opportunities for genetic gynaecological conditions will be improved. A more complete understanding of genetic conditions may increase anxiety and psychological stress for women and their families.
  
  
  BACKGROUND
  Society of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists of Canada.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  The levels of evidence are not adequate for evidence-based recommendations to be made.
authors.affiliation: Calgary AB.
authors.forename: R
authors.initials: R
authors.lastname: Douglas Wilson
authors.affiliation: Vancouver BC.
authors.forename: Sylvie
authors.initials: S
authors.lastname: Langlois
mesh_terms: D002170:Canada; D005260:Female; D030342:Genetic Diseases, Inborn / Q000235:genetics*; D005820:Genetic Testing; D058869:Gynecological Examination; D006801:Humans; D018570:Risk Assessment