Oligoastrocytoma

Currently, genetic testing is not automatically indicated for children of an individual who has been diagnosed with an oligoastrocytoma.  The exact cause of oligoastrocytomas is unknown,^[1] and no single inherited risk factor has been shown to increase the chance of developing this type of tumor.

In rare cases, a brain tumor may be associated with an inherited genetic risk factor, but this is more likely if there is a family history of multiple cancers in close relatives.^[2]  To assess the chance that the cancers in a family are caused by an inherited genetic risk factor, a genetics professional can take a full family history and determine if any genetic testing is appropriate.  If possible, it is most useful for an individual with a personal history of cancer to be tested first.

Genetics clinics are a source of information for individuals and families regarding genetic conditions, treatment, inheritance, and genetic risks to other family members.  More information about genetic consultations is available from Genetics Home Reference at http://ghr.nlm.nih.gov/handbook/consult. To find a genetics clinic, we recommend that a primary healthcare provider offer a referral.

The following online resources can help locate a local genetics professional:  

• GeneTests has a searchable directory of US and international genetics and prenatal diagnosis clinics.
• The National Society of Genetic Counselors provides a searchable directory of US and international genetic counseling services.
• The American College of Medical Genetics has a searchable database of US genetics clinics.
• The University of Kansas Medical Center provides a list of US and international genetic centers, clinics, and departments.
• The American Society of Human Genetics maintains a database of its members, which includes individuals who live outside of the United States. Visit the link to obtain a list of the geneticists in your country, some of whom may be researchers that do not provide medical care.