What Does My Result Mean?
Test Results and Interpretation
Your test results should be explained in support with your personal and family health history, results of your physical examination, other laboratory and hospital tests, and the clinical expertise of your healthcare provider. The results of your GIAnomics™ Genetic Test will be sent to your ordering physician and will become part of your medical record. All other parties can only obtain results by submitting an Authorization for Release of Information Form. There are three possible results from this test: positive, negative, or uncertain.
A Negative Result:
There were no variants identified in any of the genes that were tested using the test method specified. This result greatly reduces the likelihood that you have a variant in the genes that were tested and known cancer or inherited disease risks associated with these genes. If you are the first person in your family being tested, a negative result means that you still have at least the same risk as a person in the general population. You may still be at a greater than average risk for hereditary cancers or inherited diseases due to a genetic predisposition that cannot be detected by this test. If you test negative for a variant that is known to be in your family, then you may be considered to have the same risk for cancer or inherited diseases as a person in the general population.
A Result with Unknown Clinical Significance
A genetic change was identified however, it is not known if this variant is associated with developing cancer or inherited diseases based on current knowledge and currently available clinical data. You may be considered as having the same risk for cancer or inherited diseases as a person in the general population. You may also still be at a greater than average risk for hereditary cancers or inherited diseases due to this variant or a genetic predisposition that cannot be detected by this test. Fortunately, as new information and research are published daily, we will update your report if any new findings indicate your test result has been updated to positive or negative.
A Positive Result
At least one variant was identified in your DNA that is associated with an increased risk for cancer or inherited diseases. This means you are at increased risk for developing a cancer or inherited diseases. Knowing that you have a variant in one or more of the genes analyzed may help you make more informed choices with your doctor about your medical care. You and your healthcare provider can use this information to make a personalized screening and prevention plan. Following your plan may lower your chance of developing cancer or inherited diseases or may increase the chance that any cancer or inherited diseases detected will be diagnosed when it is at an earlier and more treatable stage. Screening for family members may be recommended. A positive result does not mean that you have cancer or inherited diseases or that you will definitely develop cancer in your lifetime.
What are the risks and limitations of genetic testing?
The physical risks associated with most genetic tests are very small, particularly for those tests that require only a buccal smear (a method that samples cells from the inside surface of the cheek).
Many of the risks associated with genetic testing involve the emotional, social, or financial consequences of the test results. People may feel angry, depressed, anxious, or guilty about their results. In some cases, genetic testing creates tension within a family because the results can reveal information about other family members in addition to the person who is tested.
Genetic testing can provide only limited information about an inherited condition. The test often can’t determine if a person will show symptoms of a disorder, how severe the symptoms will be, or whether the disorder will progress over time. Another major limitation is the lack of treatment strategies for many genetic disorders once they are diagnosed.
A genetics professional can explain in detail the benefits, risks, and limitations of a particular test. It is important that any person who is considering genetic testing understand and weigh these factors before making a decision. Genetics Institute of America provides Complimentary Genetic Counseling to all patients to better interpret and understand their results.