Head and neck squamous cell carcinoma in FAMMM syndrome

BACKGROUND: Germline mutations at the INK4a/p16 locus are implicated in several human cancer syndromes, including familial atypical multiple mole melanoma (FAMMM) syndrome, FAMMM-pancreatic cancer (FAMMM-PC) syndrome, and in familial head and neck cancer syndrome. METHODS: We present an individual with a family history of melanoma and pancreatic cancer who had multiple dysplastic nevi, squamous cell carcinoma of the tongue at age 22, multiple melanomas, a second squamous cell cancer of the tongue at age 40, and ultimately a pancreatic cancer. RESULTS: We demonstrate a germline mutation in INK4a and loss of heterozygosity at this locus in his HNSCC tissue. CONCLUSIONS: This report suggests that INK4a germline mutations associated with FAMMM/FAMMM-PC can also be associated with HNSCC. We conclude that HNSCC in young individuals should prompt clinicians to obtain a family history and consider that the patient may have a germline p16 defect that could predispose them to other cancers, including melanoma and pancreatic cancer.