Cancer Screening

Carriers of the Lynch Syndrome genes should undergo a more rigorous cancer screening program. This is based on the rapid growth of cancers in this population. This aggressive approach should be covered by insurance, provided Lynch Syndrome has been diagnosed. However, diagnosing Lynch Syndrome will affect the ability to obtain and the cost of certain types of insurance. While this approach is costly, it should allow cancers to be discovered at an early stage.

COLON
Non-Lynch Lynch
Initial Colonoscopy Age 45

Or 10 years before a first degree relative with a colon cancer or colon polyps

Age 20 – 25

Sooner based on family history

Follow-up Colonoscopy Every 5-10 years based on history.

Every 1-5 years based on biopsy results

Every 1-2 years until age 39

Every year at age 40

UTERINE – ENDOMETRIAL
Non-Lynch Lynch
Pelvic Examination Every 1-2 years Every year
Endometrial Biopsy Based on symptoms or examination Every year starting age 30-35
Ultrasound Based on symptoms or examination Every year starting age 30-35
Hysterectomy Based on symptoms Consider for cancer prevention in high risk groups
OVARIAN
Non-Lynch Lynch
Pelvic Examination Every 1-2 years Every year at age 30
Pelvic Ultrasound Based on symptoms or examination Every year starting age 30-35

Sooner per exam or symptoms

Oophorectomy Based on symptoms or abnormal exmination

Optional if having a hysterectomy

Consider for cancer prevention

Recommended if having a hysterectomy

STOMACH

Non-Lynch Lynch
EGD Based on symptoms Consider every 1-5 years when a colonoscopy is performed
CAT Scan Based on Symptoms Based on symptoms, but low threshold to order scans

 

PANCREATIC
Non-Lynch Lynch
MRI Scan Based on Symptoms Based on Symptoms, but low threshold to order scans
RENAL
Non-Lynch Lynch
UA Based on symptoms or with a routine physical Every year from age 25
CAT Scan Based on Symptoms or labs Based on symptoms or labs with a low threshold to order scan