Table 1. Variant Classification for Pathogenicity

Type of VariantDescription
PathogenicDirectly contributes to the development of disease. Additional evidence is not expected to alter the classification of this variant. [Note: Not all pathogenic variants are fully penetrant.]
Likely pathogenicVery likely to contribute to the development of disease, but scientific evidence is currently insufficient to prove this conclusively.
Uncertain significanceThere is not enough information at this time to support a more definitive classification of this variant.
Likely benignNot expected to have a major effect on disease, but the scientific evidence is currently insufficient to prove this conclusively.
BenignDoes not cause disease. Additional evidence is not expected to alter classification of this variant.

Adapted from Richards et al.[6]

From: Cancer Genetics Overview (PDQ®)

Cover of PDQ Cancer Information Summaries
PDQ Cancer Information Summaries [Internet].
Bethesda (MD): National Cancer Institute (US); 2002-.

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