MUTYH Gene Mutations

Information for People with Inherited MUTYH Mutations

What is MUTYH?

MUTYH is a gene that is linked to increased cancer risk. 

What are the cancer risks for people with MUTYH mutations?

People who inherit mutations in both copies of their MUTYH gene have MUTYH-associated polyposis (MAP). People with MAP are at high risk for several types of cancer, beginning at a young age.

People with a mutation in only one copy of their MUTYH gene do not develop MAP and are not considered to be at increased risk for colorectal cancer. 

What can people with a MUTYH mutations do?

There are guidelines for screening and prevention for certain cancers in people with MAP and with a mutation in both copies of their MUTYH gene. 

People with MAP who have been diagnosed with cancer may qualify for specific treatments or clinical trials. 

Because of the high lifetime risk of cancer, people with MAP of reproductive age may wish to speak with a genetics expert about options related to family planning. 

Each of these topics is outlined in more detail in the sections highlighted below. 

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