A 35-year-old BRCA1 mutation carrier requests risk-reduction surgery. She has dense breasts (ACR category D) and her 10-year risk is estimated at 65%. After bilateral risk-reducing mastectomy, what is the approximate risk reduction in breast cancer incidence?
- A 90–95% ✓
- B 50–60%
- C 65–75%
- D 99–100%
Correct answer: A. 90–95%
Explanation
Bilateral prophylactic mastectomy reduces the risk of breast cancer by approximately 90–95% in BRCA1/2 carriers; it does not completely eliminate risk because residual breast tissue may remain in the skin flap or axillary tail. The remaining small risk arises from this residual tissue, not from metastatic disease.
Reference: Bailey & Love's Short Practice of Surgery, 27th ed.
High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP
Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.