Controversies and recommendations in germline genetic testing for cancer predisposition
In November 2022, the SIOPE Host Genome Working Group convened in hybrid format, both in Paris, France, and online, to deliberate the prevailing diagnostic practices for germline genetic testing in children with cancer. Consensus-based recommendations were defined and have recently been published. The group recommended that all children with cancer be clinically screened, and that patients at high risk for predisposition syndrome be identified for genetic testing. Upfront, focused germline genetic testing in children with cancer can be performed to support cancer diagnosis and guide treatment. In addition, the group emphasized the need for clear information to be provided to patients and caregivers before genetic testing is performed. Comprehensive germline genetic testing in all childhood cancer patients should be scientifically evaluated to better understand the consequences. Similarly, surveillance measures after identification of a cancer predisposition need to be better evaluated to understand effectiveness.
See: Bakhuizen JJ, at al. EJC Paediatric Oncology 2024;4. DOI:10.1016/j.ejcped.2024.100176
Joint Task Force of the SIOPE Host Genome and Imaging Working Group
After the Joint Session of the Host Genome and Imaging Working Groups during the SIOPE Meeting in May 2024 in Milan, Italy, a joint task force of experts from both working groups was created to address unresolved questions on imaging practices for Cancer Predisposition Surveillance. Common recommendations will be drafted on the use of imaging techniques during cancer surveillance.
SIOPE Host Genome Working Group Meeting in Bern, Switzerland in January 2025
The next meeting of the SIOPE Host Genome Working Group will take place in Bern, Switzerland, on 30 and 31 of January 2025. The meeting will comprise plenary session talks, workshops on various cancer predispositions to discuss recommendations for workup and management, and abstract sessions on ongoing and completed projects. It will be preceded by the Constitutional Mismatch Repair Deficiency Meeting of the C4CMMRD Group on January 29.