PTEN Hamartoma Tumor Syndrome/Cowden Syndrome: Genomics, Oncogenesis, and Imaging Review for Associated Lesions and Malignancy

Abstract

PTEN hamartoma tumor syndrome/Cowden syndrome (CS) is a rare autosomal dominant syndrome containing a germline PTEN mutation that leads to the development of multisystem hamartomas and oncogenesis. Benign tumors such as Lhermitte–Duclos disease and malignant tumors involving the breast, thyroid, kidneys, and uterus are seen in CS. Radiologists have an integral role in the comanagement of CS patients. We present the associated imaging findings and imaging screening recommendations. Knowledge of the types of cancers commonly seen in CS and their imaging findings can aid in early tumor recognition during cancer screening to help ensure near-normal life spans in CS patients.