Impact of MRI surveillance and breast cancer detection in young women with BRCA mutations

Abstract

Based on several observational studies that have yielded consistent results, the combination of annual magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) plus mammography is now the standard of care for screening women with BRCA mutations who decline risk-reducing mastectomy. However, many of these women will develop breast cancer at a young age and, while most of these cancers will be very early stage, oncologists need to be aware of the unique issues faced by women in this age group due to the diagnosis and treatment. Fear of death, loss of fertility, premature menopause, relationship stress, career disruption and financial losses are only some of the problems that are either unique to young women or much more pronounced in this age group. Urgent referral to a fertility specialist of any woman who has not yet completed her family should be made as soon as the possible need for systemic treatment is recognized. The oncologist should also have a low threshold for referring young women to professionals experienced in navigating young women and their families through the psychosocial trauma of a breast cancer diagnosis.