Gastroenterology · UKMLA & AKT

Familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP)

A free high-yield preview for the UKMLA Applied Knowledge Test. Below are the key points to recognise familial adenomatous polyposis (fap) — the full SA Note notes add investigations, management, complications and 10 practice questions.

Key high-yield points

  • Autosomal dominant - germline mutation in APC gene (chromosome 5q21)
  • NOT the most common inherited colorectal cancer - that is Lynch syndrome (HNPCC) (~3-5%); FAP accounts for <1%
  • Near-100% lifetime risk of colorectal cancer if untreated; mean age of cancer ~35-40 years
  • Hundreds to thousands of adenomatous polyps developing from teens onward

FAP vs Lynch syndrome: Lynch syndrome is the most common inherited colorectal cancer. FAP is more dramatic (100% penetrance, thousands of polyps) but far less common.

Unlock the full Familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP) revision

Get the complete high-yield notes (5 more sections covering investigations, management and complications), 10 practice questions, mock exams and AI tutoring. Start free.

Related UKMLA topics