General information for people with inherited PALB2 mutations

Both men and women can carry a mutation in the PALB2 gene. 

People with an inherited mutation in PALB2 have an increased risk for certain cancers. See the Cancer Risk section for more information. There are guidelines for screening and prevention for certain cancers in people with a PALB2 mutation. There also may be clinical trials available for people who test positive for a PALB2 mutation. See our Risk Management section for more information about screening options in people with PALB2 mutations. 

People diagnosed with a PALB2 mutation who have been diagnosed with cancer may qualify for specific treatment or clinical trials. Visit the Cancer Treatment section for more information about clinical trials for people with a PALB2 mutation.

Inheriting a PALB2 mutation from both parents can cause Fanconi anemia. See our Other Considerations section for more information about this disorder.

The name PALB2 stands for "Partner and Localizer of BRCA2." The gene is located on chromosome 16. PALB2 works together with BRCA2 to repair damaged DNA.