Li-Fraumeni Syndrome predisposes certain people to multiple different types of cancer and often multiple cancers and multiple tumors over their lifetime. There currently is no way to “fix” the defective p53 gene mutation. LFS cancers are treated similarly to those in patients without LFS, with some exceptions. In general, it is believed that radiation treatment should be avoided if possible, as LFS-affected individuals appear to be at higher risk for radiation induced cancers. Radiation from CT scans and x-rays should be limited for similar reasons. There are many cases where scans or x-rays can not be avoided, and in those cases, it is best to make both the attending doctors and the technicians aware of the potential for radiation sensitivity to reduce the chance of unnecessary or additional exposure.
LFS is a complex syndrome with wide reaching implications for individuals and their families. For this reason, we suggest that patients with LFS or suspected LFS consult with a provider or institution that has experience caring for patients with Li-Fraumeni Syndrome. In doing so, it is our hope that patients will be provided the highest level of medical care, genetic counseling, and social support services available.
