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Breast and Ovarian Cancer Multigene Blood Test

Published: August 9, 2026Updated: August 17, 2026

A blood-based genetic test that examines multiple genes associated with inherited breast and ovarian cancer risk.

Quick summary

["This test can identify certain inherited gene changes that increase the risk of breast and ovarian cancers."]

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 17, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
97655-5
Short code
Breast Gyn Multigene Bld/T
Synonyms
Breast Gyn Multigene Bld/T
Category
liver
Sample
whole-blood
Container
Lavender-top (EDTA)
Units
N/A
Ref low
10
Ref high
40
Critical range
— – 500 N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
molgen
CPT
84484
SNOMED
302774002
Specimen volume
3 mL
Stability
Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h
Hemolysis max
0
Lipemia max
0
Icterus max
0
TAT
4–24 hours
Order
routine

What is this test?

This test examines multiple DNA genes in a blood sample for inherited changes associated with increased risk of breast and ovarian cancers.

Why might I need this test?

It may be considered when there is a personal or family history of breast or ovarian cancer, another cancer linked to an inherited risk, or a relative with a known gene change.

How is the test performed?

A blood sample is collected and analyzed in a laboratory to evaluate selected cancer-risk genes. A genetics professional may interpret the results and discuss any recommended follow-up.

How do I prepare for the test?

No special preparation is usually needed. Because the test can be affected by genetic changes in blood cells, it may be performed on a separate blood sample instead of the same sample used for some tumor tests.

Reference range

Adult: 10-40 U/LN/A

Specimen: whole-blood

No special preparation required. Avoid fatty meals before the test if possible.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

A positive result may show an inherited gene change associated with higher breast or ovarian cancer risk, but it does not mean that cancer is present or will definitely develop. A negative result does not exclude all genetic causes of cancer risk. Results should be interpreted with a genetics professional and personal and family history.

Short name

Hereditary breast and ovarian cancer gene panel

Frequently asked questions

Does a positive result mean I have cancer?
No. It means a specific inherited gene change was found that may increase cancer risk; it does not diagnose cancer.
Can a negative result rule out inherited cancer risk?
No. This panel evaluates only selected genes and does not identify every possible genetic cause of cancer risk.
Should family members also be tested?
A genetics professional can help determine whether relatives should receive targeted testing for the gene change found.
  1. 1
    MedlinePlus — Laboratory TestsSource
  2. 2
    Lab Tests OnlineSource
  3. 3
    Mayo Clinic — Tests & ProceduresSource

Click any link to access the full source. PubMed Central (PMC) links provide free full-text access.

This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Medical Disclaimer

This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.

If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 17, 2026. · Read our editorial policy