Genetic Testing
Genetic Testing: Unveiling Your DNA's Secrets
Genetic testing, also known as DNA testing, is a rapidly evolving field in healthcare that analyzes your genetic makeup to identify variations or mutations in your genes, chromosomes, or proteins. This information can provide valuable insights into your health, revealing:
- Predisposition to diseases: Genetic testing can assess your risk of developing certain inherited conditions like cystic fibrosis, sickle cell anemia, or certain cancers.
- Diagnosis of genetic disorders: If you have symptoms suggestive of a genetic condition, a test can confirm the diagnosis or rule it out. Examples include Huntington's disease or Down syndrome.
- Carrier screening: Planning a family? Carrier screening can identify whether you and your partner carry genes for specific diseases that you might pass on to your children.
How Does Genetic Testing Work?
The process typically involves collecting a small sample of blood, saliva (spit), or buccal cells (from the inner cheek), which are then analyzed in a laboratory. Different tests examine various aspects of your genetic makeup:
- Gene tests: These analyze specific genes for mutations known to be associated with certain diseases.
- Chromosomal tests: These look for abnormalities in chromosome structure or number, such as Down syndrome, where there's an extra copy of chromosome 21.
- Biochemical tests: These measure the activity levels of proteins or enzymes, which can indicate underlying genetic changes.
Types of Genetic Testing
There are numerous genetic tests available, each designed for a specific purpose. Here’s a basic breakdown:
- Diagnostic testing: Confirms or rules out a suspected genetic disorder based on symptoms.
- Carrier testing: Determines if you carry a gene for a genetic condition that you could pass on to your children.
- Prenatal testing: Performed during pregnancy to assess the developing fetus for genetic abnormalities.
- Preimplantation genetic diagnosis (PGD): Used during in vitro fertilization (IVF) to identify embryos free of genetic diseases before implantation.
- Pharmacogenetic testing: Evaluates your genes to predict how you might respond to certain medications.
For more information or to schedule a TOVA test, please contact our clinic today.