Skip to Content
NorthShore is part of Endeavor Health Learn more ›

Health Encyclopedia

Home » Health Resources » Health Encyclopedia

Lynch syndrome

« Previous Page En Español

Top of the page

Lynch syndrome

Lynch syndrome is an inherited condition that increases a person's risk for developing colorectal cancer and other cancers. Lynch syndrome is also called hereditary nonpolyposis colon cancer (HNPCC).

Lynch syndrome is caused by changes (mutations) in certain genes. A genetic test can tell if a person carries any of the known gene changes for Lynch syndrome.

Current as of: October 25, 2023

Author: Ignite Healthwise, LLC Staff

Clinical Review Board
All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.

This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Ignite Healthwise, LLC, disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use. Learn how we develop our content.

To learn more about Ignite Healthwise, LLC, visit webmdignite.com.

© 2024 Ignite Healthwise, LLC. Healthwise, Healthwise for every health decision, and the Healthwise logo are trademarks of Ignite Healthwise, LLC.

This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Ignite Healthwise, LLC, disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use. Learn how we develop our content.