Challenges managing women with suspected Lynch Syndrome in Zimbabwe: a case report

Authors

  • Kotti-Emily Mukucha University of Zimbabwe
  • Marshall T Manase University of Zimbabwe
  • Charles Muronda Lancet Clinical Laboratories
  • Judith Whittaker Lancet Clinical Laboratories
  • Bothwell T Guzha University of Zimbabwe

Keywords:

Lynch syndrome, challenges in management, resource-poor countries, Zimbabwe

Abstract

Lynch Syndrome (LS) is associated with a genetic predisposition to colorectal, endometrial and multiple extracolonic cancers. The lifetime risk of developing endometrial and ovarian cancers is 40–62% and 4–12% respectively. The case is presented of a 56-year-old woman with a prior history of colorectal cancer who later developed endometrial carcinoma. Tumour immunohistochemistry showed microsatellite instability (MSI)-high, which is observed in 90% of LS-associated carcinomas. Germline molecular testing to confirm the diagnosis is not available in Zimbabwe. Her case is discussed together with the difficulties associated with the management of patients in Zimbabwe suspected to have LS.

Author Biographies

  • Kotti-Emily Mukucha, University of Zimbabwe

    Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Zimbabwe, Harare, Zimbabwe

  • Marshall T Manase, University of Zimbabwe

    Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Zimbabwe, Harare, Zimbabwe

  • Charles Muronda, Lancet Clinical Laboratories

    Lancet Clinical Laboratories, Harare, Zimbabwe

  • Judith Whittaker, Lancet Clinical Laboratories

    Lancet Clinical Laboratories, Cape Town, South Africa

  • Bothwell T Guzha, University of Zimbabwe

    Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Zimbabwe, Harare, Zimbabwe

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Published

2021-12-09

Issue

Vol. 13 No. 1 (2021)

Section

Case Studies

License

South African Journal of Gynaecological Oncology (SAJGO) Copyright is held by South African Society of Gynaecologic Oncology (SASGO). Copyright of the articles is held by the authors. The work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-Non-Commercial Works 4.0 South Africa License (CC BY NC). Material submitted for publication in the SAJGO is accepted provided it has not been published elsewhere. The SAJGO does not hold itself responsible for statements made by the authors. The opinions expressed in this publication are those of the authors. They do no purport to reflect the opinions or views of SASGO or its members.