Abstract
We have described the cancer family syndrome (CFS) from the standpoint of its tumor spectrum, inheritance, and natural history, emphasizing the search for reliable biomarkers of the genotype. Our discussion of surveillance and management has stressed the need to incorporate knowledge of the natural history and genetics of the CFS. Many problems exist in comprehending this disease. Specifically, there exists the possibility that the CFS may merely be a 'catch-all' for several genotypically distinct cancer-predisposing disorders. In accord with the supposition of genetic heterogeneity, the laboratory markers described may eventually enable discrimination of multiple genotypes whose tumor spectra may differ from one entity to another.