CDH1 on Multigene Panel Testing: Look Before You Leap

Abstract

Multigene panel testing (MGPT) has become a critical component of cancer risk assessment in clinical practice. As technology and access improve and costs decrease, more individuals than ever are undergoing MGPT for genetic evaluation. One gene that deserves special consideration when included on MGPT is CDH1, which codes for the cell-cell adhesion protein E-cadherin. Pathogenic and likely pathogenic germline variants in CDH1 have been associated with hereditary diffuse gastric cancer syndrome, and in highly penetrant families, testing for these variants is critical for proper risk management. However, recent data demonstrated that gastric cancer penetrance in unselected CDH1 carriers may be lower than expected. Further complicating matters are the lack of effective screening strategies for gastric cancer and recommendation for risk-reducing total gastrectomy in CDH1 carriers. Therefore, the discovery of an unexpected pathogenic or likely pathogenic CDH1 variant on multigene panel testing, when testing for CDH1 would not normally be considered based on personal or family history alone, creates dilemmas for both patients and providers. In this commentary, we highlight the potential for unexpected CDH1 variants on MGPT, outline the uncertainties associated with these variants, and emphasize the importance of pretest counseling regarding the potential for an unexpected CDH1 variant. Although CDH1 testing is often important for clinical decision-making, individuals and providers need to be aware of the potential for an unexpected CDH1 variant when CDH1 is included on MGPT for cancer risk assessment.

Figure 1.

Pedigree illustrating a family with an unexpected CDH1 variant. SRCC = signet ring cell carcinoma.