Evidence is emerging that knowledge of inherited mutations in predisposing genes, such as BRCA1 and BRCA2, is also important.1–4 The majority of BRCA2-associated breast cancers are ER-positive, and in the general population, ER positivity is a favourable prognostic factor, compared to ER negativity early in the course of the disease.5 However, recent studies indicate that positive ER status and low tumour grade may not predict a good outcome in BRCA2 carriers.6,7. The gene discussed is BRCA1; the disease is breast carcinoma.