Guidelines for genetic testing in people diagnosed with fallopian tube, ovarian, or primary peritoneal cancer
Experts recommend all women diagnosed with fallopian tube, ovarian, or primary peritoneal cancer at any age have genetic counseling and testing. About 15-20% of women diagnosed with fallopian tube, ovarian or primary peritoneal cancer will test positive for an inherited mutation that caused their cancer.
Other people who may benefit from genetic counseling and testing
- You may benefit from additional genetic counseling and expanded genetic testing if you had genetic testing in the past, you tested negative, and the following applies to you:
- you had a test that only looked for one or a few genes, or
- you had genetic testing before 2014. Genetic testing has improved, and laboratories can now find gene mutations that may have previously been missed.
Ovarian cancer survivors and those in treatment should speak with a genetics expert to see if testing is right for them.
Genetic testing for relatives of people who have been diagnosed with fallopian tube, ovarian or primary peritoneal cancer
Genetic counseling and testing is also recommended for anyone with a first-degree or second-degree relative who has been diagnosed with any of these cancers at any age.
See our sections Testing Guidelines by Cancer Type and Genetic Testing for People Who Have Never Been Diagnosed with Cancer for additional guideline information.
Healthcare providers who are specially trained in genetics can help people diagnosed with cancer learn if it was caused by an inherited mutation. There are several ways to find a genetics expert:
- The National Society of Genetic Counselor website offers a searchable directory for finding a genetic counselor by state and specialty. To find a genetic counselor who specializes in cancer genetics, choose "cancer" under the options "Area of Practice/Specialization."
- InformedDNA is a network of board-certified genetic counselors providing this service by telephone. They can also help you find a qualified expert in your area for face-to-face genetic counseling if that is your preference.
- Grey Genetics provides access to genetic counselors who offer genetic counseling by telephone.
- The Genetic Support Foundation offers genetic counseling with board-certified genetic counselors.
- FORCE's toll-free helpline at: 866-288-RISK, ext. 704, can connect you with a volunteer board-certified genetic counselor who can answer general questions about genetic testing and hereditary cancer and help you find a genetic counselor near you.
- FORCE Peer Navigator Program will match you with a volunteer who has undergone genetic counseling and can help you navigate resources to find a genetic counselor near you.
- Ask your doctor for a referral to a genetics expert.
If you are considering genetic testing, you can find peer support through the following resources:
- Register for the FORCE Message Boards to connect with others who share your situation.
- FORCE's Peer Navigation Program will match you with a volunteer who shares your mutation and situation and provide you with a free resource guide.
- Contact the FORCE impact leaders in your area to link to local support groups and other resources.
- Attend a virtual support meeting in your area.
- Read the stories from members of our community.