Test guide
BRCA Genetic Test
BRCA is short for "breast cancer gene." A BRCA genetic test uses a sample of your blood, saliva (spit), or cells from inside of your cheek to look for changes in your BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes. Genes are parts of DNA in your cells that you inherit from your parents. You inherit two copies of each gene, one from each parent. Genes carry information that controls what you look like and how your body works.
What it is for
This test is used to find out if you have harmful changes in your BRCA1 or BRCA2 genes that increase your risk of getting: Source: MedlinePlus, National Library of Medicine. Medical test information is public domain. Source identity and definition checked automatically on 2026-10-18. No individual clinical interpretation or human reviewer is asserted.
Limitations
Reference intervals and interpretation depend on the laboratory, specimen, method and clinical context. This source definition is educational information; it does not establish a diagnosis, product approval or suitability for an individual.
Also known as
- BRCA gene test, BRCA gene 1, BRCA gene 2, breast cancer susceptibility gene1, breast cancer susceptibility gene 2
Reviewed products
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