Genetic dilemmas Flashcards
What is the role of a clinical geneticist?
- Identify patients with, or at risk of a genetic condition
- Communicate genetic information in an understandable, non-directive manner
- Offer recommendations (screening)
- Discuss implications of gene testing
- Options (treatment)
Type of inheritance in Huntingtons?
Autosomal dominant
If a daughter tests positive for Huntingtons disease who should be tested next?
The father will be a obligate carrier
Prenatal diagnosis?
- Chorionic villus sampling >11 weeks
- 12 week viability scans (USS) - Nuchal folds
- Amniocentesis >15 weeks
Which mutations are associated with developing breast and ovarian cancer?
BRCA1 and BRCA2
What tests can be used to screen fro breast cancer?
- Genetic screening for mutations in BRCA1 and BRCA2
- Mammography
If an individual is BRCA1 or BRCA2 positive what treatment may they consider?
Prophylactic surgery to remove their breast or ovaries
What are the risks involved in antenatal testing?
- Increased risk of miscarriage
- 50% risk of terminating a healthy fetus
If a father is positive for Huntington’s what is the chance of the child being positive?
50%
What chromosome is affected in Huntingtons?
Chromosome 4