Chromosomal Abnormalities Flashcards
What is Cytogenetics?
Study of genetic constitution of cells through the visualisation and analysis of chromosomes
Why do cytogenetic analysis?
Accurate diagnosis, better clinical management, assess future reproductive risks, prenatal diagnosis
Why might you be referred for cytogenetics?
Constiutional abnormalities, prenatal disagnosis, birth defects, abnormal sexual development, infertility, recurrent fetal loss, leukaemia, solid tumours, specific translocations/abnormalities
What are the two types of prenatal diagnosis?
Chorionic villus and Amniocentesis
What can be seen in prenatal diagnosis?
Maternal screening for down syndrome, first trimester screening, FH chromosome abnormality, Abnormal ultrasound scan, DNA studies
What birth defects can be seen on prenatal scan?
Dysmorphism, congenital malformations, mental retardation, developmental delay, specific syndromes like down, williams and digeorge syndrome,
At what stage are chromosomes karyotypes?
Metaphase
How do you analyse chromosomes?
Count the number of chromosomes, identify each chromosome pair, assess if there is any missing or extra material,must be seen at correct resolution twice and be independently rechecked once
How do you describe a karyotype?
chromosome number, sex complement and structural changes, separated by commas e.g. 46, XX- normal female
What are Trisomies?
Extra chromosome e.g. down syndrome
What are monosomies?
Less chromosomes e.g. turner syndrome
What is polyploidy?
Gain of a whole haploid set of chromosomes
What causes polyploidy?
polyspermy- when an egg is fertilised by more than one sperm
What is anaphase lag?
Chromosomes left behind and not pulled to poles
What are the symptoms of down syndrome?
Hyptonia, characteristic, facial features, heart defects, increased chance of leukaemia, alzeimers
Which chromosome is trisomy in down syndrome?
21
What chromosome is trisomy in Edwards syndrome?
18
What are the symptoms of Edwards Syndrome?
Small lower jaw, prominent occiput, low-set ears, rocker bottom feet, overlapping fingers, live 5-15 days