Alternative Names & Classifications:
Familial Adenomatous Polyposis (CLINICAL), FAP (CLINICAL)
Description
FAP is an autosomal dominant syndrome caused by a mutation in the APC tumor suppressor gene. Without this functional gene, cell growth in the colon goes unregulated, leading to the development of hundreds to thousands of adenomatous polyps beginning in adolescence. If the colon is not surgically removed, there is a near 100% certainty that colorectal cancer will develop by age 40.