What does a variant of uncertain significance mean?
A variant of uncertain significance, or VUS, is a gene change. There is not yet enough data to know whether it raises cancer risk. A VUS is one of the possible results of genetic testing for inherited cancer risk.
According to the National Cancer Institute, most often a VUS is later reclassified as benign. That means it does not raise risk. Because a VUS is not known to be harmful, it is usually not used to make health care decisions. Instead, decisions rest on a person's own health, their family history, and other risk factors.
If you have a VUS result, stay in touch with the provider who ordered the test. New information may lead the variant to be reclassified later. Your provider can let you know if that happens. A genetic counselor can help explain what a VUS means for you.
Want the full picture? Read our complete explanation: Genetic Testing Results: Positive, Negative, VUS
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