Loescher L J
University of Arizona, Tucson, USA.
Oncol Nurs Forum. 1998 Sep;25(8):1317-27.
PURPOSE/OBJECTIVES: To describe and review scientific and regulatory aspects of molecular genetic technology in the context of DNA testing for cancer predisposition.
Published professional articles, texts, and proceedings; commercial testing companies; computerized data bases; and the World Wide Web.
This article reviews the basic molecular biology (e.g., DNA, genes, chromosomes, DNA mutations) that is the foundation for indirect and direct methods of DNA testing for cancer predisposition. Key issues in DNA testing include who should be tested, provision of testing, and regulatory concerns. Benefits and problems of testing contribute to its current controversial status.
Understanding the mechanisms of DNA testing for cancer requires knowledge of basic molecular biology. Family history of the cancer in question is a key indicator for predisposition testing. Accessing information regarding research-based testing is challenging. DNA testing for cancer predisposition is not a perfect test, as exemplified by issues related to test regulation and sensitivity.
Basic knowledge of DNA testing for cancer predisposition will help nurses to (a) have a better understanding of the indications for and ramifications of testing, (b) provide information about testing to patients and the lay public, (c) counsel patients and families at high risk for inherited cancers more effectively, and (d) interpret DNA test results.
目的/目标：在癌症易感性DNA检测的背景下，描述和回顾分子遗传技术的科学及监管方面。
已发表的专业文章、文本和会议记录；商业检测公司；计算机数据库；以及万维网。
本文回顾了作为癌症易感性DNA间接和直接检测方法基础的基本分子生物学（如DNA、基因、染色体、DNA突变）。DNA检测中的关键问题包括谁应该接受检测、检测的提供以及监管问题。检测的益处和问题导致了其目前存在争议的地位。
了解癌症DNA检测的机制需要具备基本分子生物学知识。所讨论癌症的家族史是易感性检测的关键指标。获取有关基于研究的检测的信息具有挑战性。癌症易感性DNA检测并非完美检测，检测监管和敏感性等问题就是例证。
癌症易感性DNA检测的基础知识将有助于护士（a）更好地理解检测的适应症和后果，（b）向患者和公众提供有关检测的信息，（c）更有效地为遗传性癌症高危患者及其家庭提供咨询，以及（d）解读DNA检测结果。
