Genetic Test

What To Think About

The information obtained from a genetic test can have a profound impact on your life. Genetic counselors are trained to help you understand your risk for having a child with an inherited (genetic) disease, such as sickle cell disease, cystic fibrosis, or hemophilia. A genetic counselor can help you make well-informed decisions. Ask to have genetic counseling before making a decision about genetic testing.

• A genetic test result is sensitive information. Your confidentiality should be maintained, and the release of information should be limited to those who are authorized to receive it.
• A fetal genetic test may detect a serious disease or disorder that will greatly impact your child's life and the lives of caregivers, such as Down syndrome. A pregnant woman who is considering genetic testing may want to consider her ethical, social, and religious beliefs to help her determine the actions she would take if test results are positive.
• A karyotype can be used to examine the size, shape, and number of chromosomes. Extra, missing, or abnormal positions of chromosome pieces can cause problems with a person's growth, development, and body functions. For more information, see the medical test Karyotype.
• A genetic test can sometimes reveal unintended information, such as the identity of a child's father (paternity).
• A breast cancer (BRCA) gene test is done to evaluate your risk of developing breast cancer. For more information, see the medical test Breast Cancer (BRCA) Gene Test.
• The discovery of a genetic disease that is not causing current symptoms may affect your future ability to gain employment or some types of private insurance coverage. This may be true for a disease that affects you late in life, such as breast cancer or Huntington's disease.
• A type of genetic test (DNA fingerprinting) can be used to determine paternity, help solve crimes, and identify a body. DNA fingerprinting is more accurate than dental records, blood type, or traditional fingerprints. For more information, see the medical test DNA Fingerprinting.

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Author:	Maria G. Essig, MS, ELS	Last Updated: April 26, 2007
Medical Review:	Joy Melnikow, MD, MPH - Family Medicine Renee H. Martin, PhD - Medical Genetics
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