The Three-Generation Pedigree: A Critical Tool in Cancer Genetics Care

Pedigree construction is an important component of cancer risk assessment and comprehensive genetic care. Pedigrees must be updated and reevaluated on a regular basis. Complete pedigrees are needed to select genetic tests and interpret genetic testing results accurately, as well as to enroll patients and families in research and variant reclassification studies to advance the science of genetics. Identified barriers to pedigree construction and assessment are described with implications for nursing practice.