Summary
- Rare genetic polyposis syndrome, characterised by gastrointestinal hamartomatous polyposis and mucocutaneous pigmentation.
- Inherited as an autosomal-dominant syndrome caused by germline alterations in STK11 gene. De novo mutations may also occur.
- Associated with an increased risk of intestinal cancer (e.g., colorectal and small bowel) and extra-intestinal cancer (e.g., breast, pancreas). The lifetime risk for developing cancer is estimated to be up to 93%. Unusual genital tract tumours may also occur.
- Patients require lifelong cancer surveillance with prophylactic polypectomy.
- Small bowel obstruction is a frequent complication; up to 70% of individuals require laparotomy for small bowel obstruction by the age of 18 years.
Last updated: Jan 08, 2013
