For Families
GeneTech has the most extensive experience in helping families understand the condition, identify the right genetic technology for diagnosis, and most importantly counsel families in understanding the test results, recurrence risk, prenatal options and prognosis where applicable. We provide here a list of frequently asked questions and some sample patient information material. If you do not find answers for your questions or the right patient information material, use the option “Discuss your case with a genetics expert” to send us your questions, or set up an appointment for genetic counseling.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is genetic testing?
Genetic testing identifies defects in our genes that cause more than 3000 genetic disorders.
What are genes?
Genes are the coding regions of DNA present in our chromosomes. They code for different proteins that perform several functions in our body.
What is a mutation?
Any change or defect in the gene that causes an abnormality is caused a mutation.
Are all genetic disorders hereditary?
No, most of the genetic mutations are random events. However a few are inherited.
What are inheritance forms of genetic disorders?
Genes are always present in pairs. In Dominant inheritance one copy of the Gene pair is defective. In Recessive both the gene copies are defective. In sex-Linked inheritance only males are effected and females are unaffected carriers.
How do we determine the inheritance of Genetic disorders?
Genetic counselors take your medical history, family history and analyse your family tree to determine inheritance.
What are the uses of Genetic Testing?
Genetic test is the ultimate diagnostic test. Once the disease causing mutation is identified, prenatal diagnosis can be offered for all family members at risk to prevent genetic disorders. Some genetic tests identify predisposition to cancer or other late onset diseases so that preventive measures can be taken.
What is prenatal diagnosis?
Prenatal diagnosis is diagnosis of the genetic disorder in fetus (before birth). Fetal genetic disorders are identified by genetic tests performed on Amniotic fluid or placental biopsy of the fetus.
What are prenatal sampling procedures?
Amniocentesis, chorionic villus sampling and cordocentesis are the common invasive sampling procedures. These procedures are usually safe when done by experts under ultrasound guidance.
What are the types of Genetic testing?
Genetic tests are either screening or diagnostic in nature. Genetic screening tests will test us if there is a elevated risk for a genetic disorder where as diagnostic tests identify the defect with >99% accuracy. Genetic disorders can be identified at chromosomal level or DNA level depending on the size of defect involved. Cytogenetics (Karyotyping)is study of chromosomes and Molecular genetics Mutation analysis) is study of DNA.
How long does it take for a genetic test to be complete?
It usually takes 1 week to 4 weeks for duration for genetic test report
Is genetic test expensive?
Not always. Most of the genetic tests are reasonably priced. Rare genetic disorders that involve full gene sequencing or multi gene panel testing are expensive.
Why should GeneTech be the first choice of patients?
GeneTech is the most comprehensive genetic testing center of the country, a pioneer with expertise unmatched.
Patient Information Material
We continuously develop and publish informative brochures on various genetic disorders and tests. Click below to access a few of them. If you do not find something you are looking for, click on the “Discuss your case with a Genetics Expert” option on the sidebar, or get an appointment for genetic counseling, or call us on our customer care number.
Invasive Prenatal Diagnostic Procedures
Congenital Adrenal Hyperplasia