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Hereditary Diffuse Gastric Cancer

Hereditary diffuse gastric cancer (HDGC) accounts for 1-3% of all gastric (stomach) cancer. Diffuse gastric cancer is also referred to as signet ring carcinoma or isolated cell type carcinoma. Although not everyone with HDGC will get cancer, having this condition significantly increases the risk to develop certain cancers.

Features of the condition

• Stomach cancer (diffuse type)
• Breast cancer (lobular type)
  
• Colon cancer (signet ring type)
  

Risk Factors

• Two or more cases of stomach cancer in a family
• Diffuse stomach cancer diagnosed before age 45
• Individual diagnosed with both diffuse stomach cancer and lobular breast cancer
• One family member with diffuse stomach cancer and another with lobular breast cancer
• One family member with diffuse stomach cancer and another with signet ring colon cancer
• Genetic mutations (see below)

Genetic Tests

The following genetic tests may be appropriate based on your personal and/or family history:

• CDH1

Schedule an Appointment

To speak with a board-certified genetic counselor about your risks for this disease:

• Schedule genetic counseling appointment online
• Or call 1-800-975-4819
• Send email

Learn More

American Society of Clinical Oncology

Genereviews