VUS
Also written as: VUS — variant of uncertain significance
Genetic variant of uncertain significance that cannot be classified as pathogenic or benign. Poses interpretation challenges in clinical testing.
Full Definition
A variant of uncertain significance represents a genetic change identified through sequencing that lacks sufficient evidence to determine whether it causes disease, is benign, or falls somewhere between these categories. VUS results create significant challenges in clinical practice as they cannot be used definitively for diagnosis, risk assessment, or family planning decisions. The classification may change over time as more data becomes available through population databases, functional studies, or segregation analysis within families. Professional guidelines recommend against making clinical decisions based solely on VUS findings, though some variants may be reclassified as more evidence emerges.
Usage
Usage note: Always spell out the full term on first use in patient-facing documents.
In Context
- "The genetic test identified three VUS in cancer-associated genes, requiring careful interpretation for the patient." — Laboratory report interpretation
- "Clinical management should not be altered based on VUS findings until reclassification occurs." — Clinical guidelines