The modified Amsterdam criteria are a set of guidelines used to identify individuals who may have Lynch syndrome, an inherited condition that increases the risk of certain cancers. A key element of the criteria involves family history of specific cancers.
Key Components of the Modified Amsterdam Criteria
The modified Amsterdam criteria include the following factor:
- Three relatives with any Lynch syndrome–associated tumor, including colorectal cancer. Other tumors in the Lynch syndrome link include those involving the endometrium, ovaries, stomach, small bowel, kidney, brain, and skin.
In simpler terms, the modified Amsterdam criteria suggest considering a diagnosis of Lynch syndrome if a family has at least three relatives with any cancer associated with Lynch syndrome, such as:
- Colorectal Cancer
- Endometrial Cancer (Uterine Cancer)
- Ovarian Cancer
- Stomach Cancer
- Small Bowel Cancer
- Kidney Cancer
- Brain Cancer
- Skin Cancer
