Pediatric Li-Fraumeni syndrome (LFS)

What is pediatric Li-Fraumeni syndrome (LFS)?

Li-Fraumeni syndrome (LFS) is a hereditary (runs in families) condition in which several people across multiple generations develop various types of cancer, and they are typically diagnosed at a young age (under 30).

A person may be diagnosed with LFS when all of the following are true:

• Develops a sarcoma (rare cancer that grows in connective tissue) before age 45

• Has a first-degree relative (parent, sibling or child) who is diagnosed with any cancer before age 45

• Has a first- or second-degree (grandparent, aunt, uncle, niece, nephew or grandchild) who is diagnosed with any cancer before age 45 or with a sarcoma at any age

The most common types of cancers found in families with LFS are:

• Acute leukemia

• Adrenal cortical tumors

• Brain cancer

• Breast cancer

• Osteosarcoma (bone cancer)

• Soft-tissue sarcoma

What are the signs and symptoms of pediatric Li-Fraumeni syndrome (LFS)?

Since LFS is a condition that increases the chance of cancer, children with this conditions should watch for signs of cancer, such as:

• Frequent headaches or changes in vision

• Loss of appetite or unexplained weight loss

• Lumps or swelling of the skin

• Unexplained aches and pains

What are the causes of pediatric Li-Fraumeni syndrome (LFS)?

LFS is caused by a gene mutation that is hereditary (passed down within families).