Genetic counselling in the prenatal setting Flashcards
Aim
*Prenatal screening and prenatal diagnosis – common counselling situations
* Basic principles of genetic counseling
* Information giving, supporting decision-making and following breaking of bad news
* Prenatal genetic testing
What is the primary goal of genetic counseling in the prenatal context?
The goal is to promote the patient’s self-determination in exercising choices
What are the aims of genetic counseling in the prenatal context?
*Deliver personalized genetic information to the patient in a useful way.
*Explore the meaning of the information with the patient in light of personal values and beliefs.
*Promote the patient’s preferences for reproductive options with consideration of alternatives, consequences, and barriers.
*Prepare the patient for accepting the outcome of the choice/s.
indications for genetic counselling
- prenatal risk for down syndrome: AMA or other screening
- ultrasound identified abnormalities
- family history of genetic condition e.g. cystic fibrosis
- previous abnormality e.g. child with down syndrome
- exposure to teratogens
- consanguinity
- increased risk of recessive conditions
examples of teratogens
o Medications - Drug categories
o Contraindicated
Roaccutane
Warfarin
Carbamazepine
o Infections
TORCH
o Maternal illness
Uncontrolled diabetes
basics principles of genetic counselling in prenatal setting
Respect and establish trust
Confidentiality
Patient autonomy / non-directiveness
Empathy
Non-judgmental attitude
Patient advocate
Individualization
Sensitivity to language and cultural differences
Role of health professional: ‘supportive’,
‘enabler’
What is the significance of advanced maternal age (AMA) in pregnancy?
Advanced maternal age increases the risk of chromosomal abnormalities in the fetus and may be associated with underlying diseases that can elevate the risk of congenital abnormalities in the offspring, such as Diabetes Mellitus.
How does the risk of chromosomal abnormalities change with increasing maternal age?
The risk of chromosomal abnormalities in the fetus increases as the maternal age advances
What are some examples of underlying diseases in older mothers that may affect pregnancy?
Diabetes Mellitus is one example of an underlying disease that older mothers may have, which can increase the risk of congenital abnormalities in their offspring.
what age is advanced age
woman> 35
risk in in 20 year old
1 in 1500
risk in a 35 year old
1 in 400
risk in a 40 year old
1 in 110
risk in a 45 year old
1 in 25
What needs to be covered in a typical session?
o Setting the scene: Quiet private setting, introductions, establish rapport,
expectations
o Family history, pedigree, pregnancy history
o Providing information - about:
AMA and increased risk of chromosomal disorders
Natural history of condition, e.g. Down syndrome (visual aids)
Individual risk
Other risk factors (soft signs on u/s), family history)
Tests available (advantages, disadvantages, limitations)
Waiting period- anxiety
Possible outcomes and options available
Potential psychosocial implications of results
Assess understanding of information
Decision-making process (incl, role of counsellor as facilitator and providing
support), in context of individual’s beliefs, values, socio-economic
circumstances, emotional stability, attitude to TOP/disability, risk
interpretation etc.
Reasons for uptake/refusal
Waiting period or uncertain results- anxiety
Obtaining informed consent
What is the primary purpose of screening tests in prenatal care?
Screening tests are primarily used to provide an indication of the likelihood that the fetus has a specific condition, aiding in identifying cases that may benefit from further diagnostic testing.
How do screening tests differ from diagnostic tests in prenatal care?
Screening tests are non-invasive and offer an indication of the likelihood of a specific condition in the fetus, while diagnostic tests provide a clear diagnosis but carry a risk of miscarriage
What is the potential benefit of identifying cases through screening tests?
Screening tests can identify cases that may benefit from further diagnostic testing, allowing for timely intervention or management if necessary
types of screening tests
- ultrasound in first trimester
- maternal serum screening
- ultrasound in second trimester
- non invasive prenatal screening
What is the timing of the Nuchal Translucency (NT) scan during pregnancy?
The NT scan is typically performed between 11 and 13 weeks of pregnancy.
What conditions can the Nuchal Translucency (NT) scan detect?
An increased NT measurement can detect up to 75% of cases of Down syndrome when combined with BhCG and PAPP-A tests. Additionally, the presence or absence of a nasal bone can further increase the accuracy to 95%.
What are some additional markers that can be assessed during the first trimester ultrasound?
New ultrasound markers are continuously being added to improve detection rates and accuracy. These may include various fetal measurements and structural features
What is the false positive rate associated with the Nuchal Translucency (NT) scan?
The false positive rate of the NT scan is around 5%.
Apart from Down syndrome, what other major abnormalities can be detected during the first trimester ultrasound?
Major abnormalities such as anencephaly can also be detected during the first trimester ultrasound screening
When is maternal serum screening typically performed during pregnancy?
Maternal serum screening is usually conducted between 15 and 18 weeks of gestation.
What is included in the “triple test” for maternal serum screening?
The “triple test” includes the measurement of alpha-fetoprotein (AFP), beta-hCG (BhCG), and oestradiol levels in maternal serum.