Surveillance recommendations for patients with germline TP53 mutations

Abstract

Purpose of review: Li-Fraumeni syndrome is associated with germline TP53 mutations and carriers have a high lifetime risk of cancer, the most common being sarcoma, breast cancer, brain tumors, adrenocortical carcinoma and leukemia. Germline TP53 mutation carriers are increasingly being identified as more genomic sequencing is performed in both clinical and research settings. There is a pressing clinical need for effective cancer risk management approaches in this group.

Recent findings: Current clinical surveillance guidelines mainly focus on breast and bowel cancer risk with little consideration for the other cancers common to the syndrome. Imaging technologies are such that the utilization of whole-body MRI imaging for surveillance is viable. Globally, several research groups have included whole-body MRI along with other diagnostic measures in formulating surveillance protocols for TP53 mutation carriers. Early reports suggest a survival benefit.

Summary: Surveillance protocols for TP53 mutation carriers have the potential to improve outcomes in individuals and families. Further research is needed to guide the development of an effective and comprehensive surveillance schedule.