The contribution of Lynch syndrome to early onset malignancy in Ireland

BackgroundLynch syndrome (LS) is an autosomal dominant hereditary cancer syndrome responsible for 2-4% of hereditary colorectal cancers (CRC). Mismatch repair protein deficiency (dMMR) is a characteristic feature of LS. It has been associated with a poor response to standard chemotherapy in metastatic colorectal cancer (mCRC). There is currently no LS database to monitor trends of disease in Ireland. We aim to centralise LS data in Ireland to assess the burden of LS in Ireland and guide improvements in prevention and treatment of LS-associated cancer.MethodsA retrospective review was carried out including all medical records for LS patients from two of the three cancer genetics clinics in Ireland between 2000 and 2018 was carried out. Clinicopathological data of probands (n =57) and affected family members including demographics, mutation status, cancer diagnosis and outcome was recorded. Statistical analysis was carried out using SPSS software.ResultsFifty-seven families including three-hundred and forty-five individuals affected by cancer were identified. The most common cancers recorded were colorectal (53%), breast (12%) and endometrial (10%). One-hundred and thirty-eight confirmed carriers were identified: 65 path_MLH1 (47%), 43 path_MSH2 (31%), 11 path_MSH6 (8%), 17 path_PMS2 (12%) and two path_EPCAM (1%). Cancer type varied significantly by gene. Median age of first diagnosis was 44.5years (range 23-81). Half of all deceased patients (n =11) in this group died within 2.5years of first diagnosis. These deaths were directly related to cancer in 59% of cases.ConclusionsUnder diagnosis of LS misses a powerful preventive and therapeutic opportunity. LS causes early onset dMMR cancer diagnoses with substantial societal impact. Implementation of ICBs into treatment policy for this small cohort of dMMR mCRC is an achievable therapeutic goal that may significantly improve survival. A prospective database for LS in Ireland is necessary to maximise prevention in this population.

Automated summary

Lynch syndrome (LS) is responsible for 2-4% of hereditary colorectal cancers and is characterized by mismatch repair protein deficiency. A retrospective review in Ireland found that LS patients most commonly had colorectal cancer, followed by breast and endometrial cancer. The study also identified significant differences in cancer type based on the specific gene involved in LS.