Genetics of pancreatitis: an update for clinicians and genetic counselors

Curr Gastroenterol Rep. 2012 Apr;14(2):112-7. doi: 10.1007/s11894-012-0240-1.

Abstract

With novel genetic technologies available, there is a paradigm shift in the way that risk assessments, diagnoses,and therapies for genetic susceptibility syndromes are addressed. Hereditary pancreatitis is among these conditions, for which genetic counseling and next generation sequencing, help families better understand, cope with and live healthier lives. Identifying a genetic etiology to a condition formally believed to be solely environmentally induced can alter the path for treatment for many patients. This finding introduces the concept of gene-environment interactions in human disease and the relationship between genetic predisposition and exposure risk in disease development. The genetic counseling process is complex with medical explanations, psychosocial issues relating to coping with diagnosis, potential future health problems, recurrence risks and family planning. These sometimes difficult conversations can be facilitated by a genetic counselor as a member of the multidisciplinary team. This chapter addresses the intricate medical and psychosocial issues that can arise in the setting of treating patients with hereditary pancreatitis.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Genetic Counseling
  • Genetic Predisposition to Disease
  • Genetic Testing
  • Genotype
  • Humans
  • Pancreatitis / genetics*
  • Risk Assessment