Cancer spectrum in Mexican patients with the CHEK2 p.(Leu236Pro) variant: a retrospective study.

Abstract

This study aimed to characterize, for the first time, the cancer spectrum associated with the most frequent pathogenic CHEK2 variant-NM_007194.4(CHEK2):c.707T > C p.(Leu236Pro)-in Mexican individuals. Although this variant is frequently detected through multi-gene panel testing, limited data on its associated cancer risks complicates genetic counseling and surveillance strategies. We retrospectively analyzed 5,759 patients who underwent multi-gene panel testing between August 2015 and August 2024 due to suspected hereditary cancer syndromes. Among them, 58 CHEK2 p.(Leu236Pro) carriers with confirmed cancer diagnoses were identified. Geographical clustering was observed, with 81% of patients originating from central Mexico, suggesting a possible founder effect. Ten distinct clinical indications for genetic testing were identified, with hereditary breast and ovarian cancer (HBOC) syndrome being the most common (74.1%). The mean age at first diagnosis among carriers was 43.8 ± 12 years, and 61.1% of them reported a family history of cancer in first- or second-degree relatives. A second or third primary cancer occurred in 20.7% of cases. Tumors were identified in 12 anatomical sites. Breast cancer predominated (67.6%, including one male case), followed by ovarian (8.1%), prostate (6.7%), gastric (4.1%), thyroid (2.7%), and endometrial (2.7%) cancers. Lymphoma, lung, sacrococcygeal bone, colorectal, and non-melanoma skin cancers each occurred in a single patient. Significant risk association was identified only for breast, ovarian, and gastric cancers. These results highlight the need for personalized surveillance, especially for breast cancer. Incorporating CHEK2 p.(Leu236Pro) into clinical decision-making tools may enhance risk assessment in the Mexican population, but larger studies are needed to refine risk estimates and to clarify the possible founder effect.