Inheritance is the phenomenon where your parents' genes are passed to you. This can influence your health in many ways, as sometimes the inheritance you get can also give rise to unexpected risks. Cowden syndrome is one of them. It is a rare inherited condition that can increase your risk of developing cancer in different parts of your body. This can usually happen due to changes in the PTEN gene, which regulates the cells in your body. When this gets interrupted, cells can grow uncontrollably in your body, increasing the risk of cancer.
What exactly is in the PTEN gene?
The PTEN gene is a tumor suppressor gene in your body. It controls how cells grow, divide, and repair themselves throughout your lifetime. The PTEN gene works just like a brake that stops cells from growing too quickly or abnormally. But when this is disturbed, a mutation in the PTEN gene weakens its function, allowing the cells in your body to grow uncontrollably. This is what gives birth to Cowden syndrome.
Symptoms you shouldn’t ignore
The symptoms of Cowden syndrome can vary. Some might experience skin changes, while others may have growths in different parts of the body.
Non-cancerous growths on the skin or inside the mouth.
Lumps in the thyroid or breast region.
An enlarged head size.
Growths in your digestive tract.
Changes in the skin like bumps or lesions.
Cancer risk associated with Cowden syndrome
If you have inherited Cowden syndrome, then you may have a higher risk of developing certain cancers in your lifetime. Some of the cancers associated with this are:
Breast cancer
Thyroid cancer, especially in women
Uterine cancer
Kidney cancer
Melanoma, a type of skin cancer
While you don't need to have cancer, paying attention to yourself can help you detect the changes early.
Diagnosis and genetic testing
Doctors may suspect Cowden syndrome based on your symptoms and your medical history. But to confirm the diagnosis, they may go with genetic testing to look for any abnormal changes in your body. If they find any changes in your PTEN gene, then they may move ahead with your diagnosis. At such times, genetic counseling can really help your family understand what is happening so you can plan your treatment accordingly.
Treatment and lifelong cancer screening
As of now, there is no cure for Cowden syndrome. So your complete focus should be on managing your symptoms and reducing the risk of cancer. As you may have a lifetime cancer risk with this condition, it is really important to get yourself checked regularly. This way, you can keep your symptoms in check and act quickly if any abnormalities are detected.
Living with Cowden syndrome
Living with a lifelong disease can be challenging, as you might stay anxious about your health all the time. But Cowden syndrome doesn’t guarantee cancer. With regular screenings and early detection, you can stay away from the danger and take control of your life and live longer.