Pediatric Cancer Predisposition
If a parent has a family history of cancer, having a child screened for cancer predisposition is an important step toward possible prevention or more effective treatment. Knowing that a child is genetically predisposed to cancer can help health care experts provide better outcomes.
The Cancer Predisposition Program at Monroe Carell partners with the Vanderbilt-Ingram Cancer Center’s Hereditary Cancer Program to provide genetic testing, cancer risk information for other family members, screening for cancer and advice on individualizing cancer treatment.
Referral and Appointment Information
Learn the reasons why you may want your pediatrician to refer you...
Some cancer predisposition syndromes include:
- Beckwith-Weidemann syndrome
- Isolated lateralized overgrowth
- DICER1 syndrome
- Hereditary paraganglioma pheochromocytoma syndrome
- Li Fraumeni syndrome (LFS)
- Multiple endocrine neoplasia (MEN) syndrome
Meet Your Care Team
Daniel J. BenedettiMD, MA
- Leukemia and Lymphoma, Pediatric Hematology/Oncology, Sarcoma, Solid Organ Malignancies
Debra L. FriedmanMD, MS
- Division of Pediatric Hematology/Oncology, General Hematology and Oncology, Leukemia and Lymphoma, Pediatric Hematology/Oncology, Solid Organ Malignancies
Why Choose Care for Cancer Predisposition at Monroe Carell
- Recognized care
U.S. News & World Report has ranked Monroe Carell as one of the best pediatric cancer programs in the nation.
- Collaborative care
Our experts in pediatric cancer work with specialists in many other fields including hematology-oncology, radiation oncology, surgery, nursing, child life, social work, psychology, nutrition and physical therapy. The result is a treatment plan tailored for your child’s needs.
- NCI-Designated Comprehensive Cancer Center
We partner with Vanderbilt-Ingram Cancer Center, the only National Cancer Institute-designated Comprehensive Cancer Center in Tennessee that treats pediatric and adult patients in one location. This means we are closely connected to research programs and specialists working to discover the latest breakthroughs in cancer care. Your child and family have access to treatments and therapies on the leading edge of discovery.
- Your child’s medical home
Our program provides a medical home for children, adolescents and young adults with suspected or confirmed cancer predisposition syndromes. When needed, we look for clues to find cancer before your child has symptoms. We also coordinate timely evaluation of symptoms and refer to other Vanderbilt specialists as needed so your child quickly gets the care they need.
- Advanced testing for predisposition
Our team of pediatric oncologists, cancer geneticists and genetic counselors work together to provide access to state-of-the art tests for cancer predisposition syndromes. Using that information, we develop individualized plans for cancer screening and treatment.
