[Genetic predisposition to breast cancer: a review in April 1998].

The recent identification of the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes allows to understand in an increasing number of cases the origin of a breast/ovarian cancer family history and thereby to propose genetic testing to at risk women. However to know to be carrier of a predisposing germline mutation is at the present to deal with the difficult choice of different supportive cares: close follow up or prophylactic surgery. Numerous studies still have to be done to determine the better management of women at risk. The other challenges are the understanding of the origin of each breast or ovarian cancer case; to identify the factors which modify the tumor risks in predisposed women; and finally to win the social acceptance of genetic testing avoiding any discrimination.