What does a positive BRCA test mean?
Positive test for the BRCA gene mutation (change)
This means you have inherited a variant on the BRCA1 or BRCA2 gene. This means you have a higher lifetime risk of developing breast or ovarian cancer. It does not mean that you WILL develop cancer.
Negative test for the BRCA gene change
A negative test means there is not an inherited genetic mutation in the BRCA genes. This does not mean you will NOT develop cancer. Not all genes involved with cancer are known, and the majority of cancers are random.
Variant of uncertain significance (VUS)
There is a third possible result, called a ‘mutation variant of uncertain/unknown significance’ (also called a variant of uncertain significance or VUS). This means that the BRCA1 or BRCA2 gene is not normal, but it is not clear if the specific gene mutation is associated with a higher risk of breast and ovarian cancer – or if it is a benign gene change like having brown eyes or blue eyes.
Approximately 7% of test results come back as VUS.
It is very important to discuss these (and all) BRCA test results with a health professional who is knowledgeable about BRCA testing, before you have the test.
