Certain people are at increased risk of developing cancer in the gastrointestinal (GI) tract due to family history and/or a genetic syndrome associated with a higher risk of cancer. These syndromes include:

• Familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP) — a hereditary syndrome characterized by the development of gastrointestinal polyps in the small and large intestines.
• Juvenile polyposis syndrome (JPS) — a hereditary syndrome identified by the presence of benign (non-cancerous) polyps in the gastrointestinal tract, most commonly in the colon.
• Peutz-Jeghers syndrome (PJS) — a hereditary syndrome identified by the presence of gastrointestinal polyps and altered pigmentation (freckling) of certain skin areas and mucous membranes.

For children and adolescents who have a family history of GI cancer or who have been diagnosed with one of these syndromes, extra monitoring is warranted to detect early signs of cancer. When signs of cancer are found, prompt and appropriate treatment is needed.

Who we are

We are a team of GI and oncology doctors and genetic counselors with special expertise in cancers of the GI tract and in hereditary cancer predisposition syndromes. We have experience in diagnosing the syndromes, monitoring for signs of GI and other cancers, and treating cancers if found.

What we do

For each patient in our care, we organize testing and monitoring, including genetic testing, regular GI surveillance, and other cancer-risk evaluations. Based on the results of the tests, we tailor treatment and ongoing monitoring recommendations.

We typically meet annually with each patient, though more frequent visits for evaluation are sometimes recommended.

The coordinated attention and guidance of the multidisciplinary team assure patients that all relevant aspects of their care are handled in a comprehensive way, and without the need for multiple visits on different days to see different specialists.

Who we treat

The clinic is available to any patient determined to have or suspected of having a predisposition to GI cancer. The clinic is open to patients whether or not they are already seen by a doctor within the CHOP system.

If you believe your child may benefit from the Comprehensive GI Cancer Predisposition Clinic, please speak with your physician about a referral to the Clinic. Referrals are made through CHOP’s Oncology Intake Coordinator at 267-426-0762 or through the Oncology online inquiry form.