Genetic screening in patients of reproductive age. How do you advise prospective parents who want to know specific risks?
At times, determining the actual genetic condition occurring in a family can be very difficult. The most important steps in deciding when testing is appropriate are the patient's age and family history, with special attention to ethnic background. By identifying risk factors before pregnancy, prospective parents can be fully informed about their specific risk of having a child with a genetic condition. Furthermore, the pros and cons of invasive prenatal diagnostic procedures often can be fully discussed well in advance of an actual pregnancy. Clinical geneticists and genetic counselors can provide valuable assistance when difficult questions or problems arise.
Wheeler
P G
PG
New England Medical Center, Boston, MA 02111, USA. pwheeler@lifespan.org
Bianchi
D W
DW
D000328:Adult; D005260:Female; D030342:Genetic Diseases, Inborn / Q000235:genetics*; D005820:Genetic Testing; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D011247:Pregnancy