May 25, 2012
Topics A-Z Cancer Information on Cowden's Syndrome
Information on Cowden's Syndrome |
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Dear Ask The Doctor:Hello! Recently I have heard of a disease known as Cowden's Syndrome. From what I have read, this disease increases the risk of developing another form of cancer such as breast or thyroid cancer. I was just wondering, if an individual who has a family history of cancer, such as myself, has an increased chance of getting Cowden's syndrome? Dear Rowan: Cowden's disease or syndrome is a genetically inherited disease in which there is development of multiple hamartomas (finger-like growths) in the lining of the skin or intestines. People with hamartomas may be susceptible to other forms of cancer including breast, thyroid and uterine cancer. Cowden's syndrome is an inherited disorder which mean that either of your parents would have to have the disease in order for you to get it. It is only in rare cases that a person with no family history of the disease gets it due to mutation of certain genes. |
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| Last Updated ( Thursday, 17 November 2011 ) |
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