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Lea JK, Stevens BK, Mulligan S, Hashmi SS, Lunstroth R, Choates MG. Non-invasive prenatal screening: Testing motivations and decision making in the low-risk population. J Genet Couns 2024. [PMID: 38778790 DOI: 10.1002/jgc4.1921] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2023] [Revised: 05/04/2024] [Accepted: 05/08/2024] [Indexed: 05/25/2024]
Abstract
Non-invasive prenatal screening provides a risk assessment for aneuploidies by utilizing cell-free DNA (cfDNA). It is recommended that cell-free DNA screening (cfDNA screening) be offered to all pregnant people regardless of a priori risk for aneuploidy. In the absence of an increased risk, alternative motives for electing cfDNA screening and different levels of informed decision making may arise. Therefore, our study aimed to characterize low-risk patients' motivations for cfDNA screening election, determine how often informed decisions are being made, and compare motivations between informed and uninformed decision makers. A survey that included a modified, validated measure of informed choice (MMIC) and questions to assess patients' motivations for cfDNA screening was offered at four MFM clinics following genetic counseling. It was found that 44% of participants (n = 100) made an uninformed decision about testing. Participants with private insurers were 4.25 times more likely to make an informed decision (95% CI = 1.10-16.37). Informed decision makers scored avoiding invasive procedures higher (p = 0.007) and ranked doing what family/friends desire lower (p = 0.005) than uninformed decision makers. While most participants scored receiving information about genetic conditions highest, 12% of participants reported fetal sex disclosure as a priority. However, this was not found to be associated with uninformed decision making. This study ultimately established that following genetic counseling, a low-risk population shared motivations with high-risk populations which highlights the importance of complete pre-test counseling for all. Future research should investigate the effect of modifying variables, such as socioeconomic status, on the performance of informed choice measures and critically evaluate the parameters that determine informed choice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jenna K Lea
- UT MD Anderson Cancer Center UTHealth Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Houston, Texas, USA
- Department of Neurology, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
| | - Blair K Stevens
- UT MD Anderson Cancer Center UTHealth Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Houston, Texas, USA
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences, McGovern Medical School at UTHealth, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Shannon Mulligan
- UT MD Anderson Cancer Center UTHealth Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Houston, Texas, USA
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences, McGovern Medical School at UTHealth, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Syed S Hashmi
- UT MD Anderson Cancer Center UTHealth Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Houston, Texas, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, McGovern Medical School at UTHealth, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Rebecca Lunstroth
- McGovern Center for Humanities & Ethics, McGovern Medical School at UTHealth, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Meagan G Choates
- UT MD Anderson Cancer Center UTHealth Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Houston, Texas, USA
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences, McGovern Medical School at UTHealth, Houston, Texas, USA
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2
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Lee HYD, Chan LW. Evaluation of pre-test counselling offered for non-invasive prenatal testing (NIPT) as a primary screening tool. J OBSTET GYNAECOL 2023; 43:2204959. [PMID: 37154788 DOI: 10.1080/01443615.2023.2204959] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/10/2023]
Abstract
The increasing popularity and expansion of non-invasive prenatal testing (NIPT) to screen for rare conditions beyond common trisomies prompts evaluation of pre-test counselling currently offered. We conducted a prospective survey to assess women's knowledge of NIPT in those who had undergone NIPT (study group) and those who were planning to have NIPT (control group). Out of the 189 questionnaires analysed, the study group did not show a higher knowledge score compared to the control group (P = 0.097). 44% misunderstood that NIPT can identify more conditions than invasive testing, 69.8% were unaware of the recommended need for nuchal translucency measurement and 52.6% were unaware of the possibility of incidental findings. 31% even considered discussing termination of pregnancy as one of the next steps if NIPT shows high risk for Down syndrome. This study shows that current pre-test counselling is inadequate. Service providers should address these knowledge gaps and assist women to make informed choices.Impact StatementWhat is already known on this subject? Pre-test counselling for non-invasive prenatal testing (NIPT) should be conducted to assist women in making an informed consent.What do the results of this study add? Our results show that a significant proportion of women are unaware of the limitations of NIPT.What are the implications of these findings for clinical practice and/or further research? Service providers should improve their pre-test counselling focusing on areas of knowledge deficiencies and misunderstanding on NIPT identified in this study.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ho Yin Diana Lee
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Pamela Youde Nethersole Eastern Hospital, Chai Wan, Hong Kong
| | - Lin Wai Chan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Pamela Youde Nethersole Eastern Hospital, Chai Wan, Hong Kong
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3
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Fang MT, Germani F, Spitale G, Wäscher S, Kunz L, Biller-Andorno N. Women's experiences with non-invasive prenatal testing in Switzerland: a qualitative analysis. BMC Med Ethics 2023; 24:85. [PMID: 37872496 PMCID: PMC10594794 DOI: 10.1186/s12910-023-00964-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2023] [Accepted: 09/27/2023] [Indexed: 10/25/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Prenatal genetic testing, in particular non-invasive prenatal testing (NIPT), as well as screening for risks associated with pregnancy, and counseling, play pivotal roles in reproductive healthcare, offering valuable information about the health of the fetus to expectant parents. This study aims to delve into the perspectives and experiences of women considering genetic testing and screening during pregnancy, focusing on their decision-making processes and the implications for informed consent. METHODS A nationwide qualitative study was conducted in Switzerland, involving in-depth interviews with women who were 1 to 2 years post-partum, covered by basic compulsory Swiss insurance, including women with a migration background. Thematic analysis was employed to identify key themes and patterns in the data. RESULTS The findings underscore the significance of effective communication during prenatal counseling, suggesting that healthcare providers could not only convey technical information but also support women in their decision-making processes. Women need comprehensive information about genetic testing and its implications, as well as the reasons for screening during pregnancy, as there might be a need to bridge knowledge gaps and clarify misconceptions. Furthermore, the study highlights the multifaceted nature of decision-making, with women considering factors such as uncertainty, values, emotional responses, and societal support systems. The concept of acceptance emerged as a crucial theme, with some women expressing their readiness to love and accept their child, regardless of genetic anomalies or disabilities. CONCLUSION This study offers valuable insights into the perspectives and needs of women regarding prenatal genetic testing, screening, and counseling in Switzerland. It underscores the importance of enhancing the clinical interaction and informed consent process by providing comprehensive information, addressing misconceptions, and supporting women in decision-making about pregnancy management and the management of the child's health, following prenatal genetic testing, including NIPT. These findings can inform healthcare providers and policymakers in improving the quality of prenatal counseling, ensuring informed consent, and supporting women in making well-informed and meaningful decisions about genetic testing, and on the use of screening during pregnancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mirriam Tyebally Fang
- Institute of Biomedical Ethics and History of Medicine, University of Zurich, Winterthurerstrasse 30, 8006, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Federico Germani
- Institute of Biomedical Ethics and History of Medicine, University of Zurich, Winterthurerstrasse 30, 8006, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Giovanni Spitale
- Institute of Biomedical Ethics and History of Medicine, University of Zurich, Winterthurerstrasse 30, 8006, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Sebastian Wäscher
- Institute of Biomedical Ethics and History of Medicine, University of Zurich, Winterthurerstrasse 30, 8006, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Ladina Kunz
- Institute of Biomedical Ethics and History of Medicine, University of Zurich, Winterthurerstrasse 30, 8006, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Nikola Biller-Andorno
- Institute of Biomedical Ethics and History of Medicine, University of Zurich, Winterthurerstrasse 30, 8006, Zurich, Switzerland.
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Hovhannisyan G, Harutyunyan T, Aroutiounian R, Liehr T. The Diagnostic, Prognostic, and Therapeutic Potential of Cell-Free DNA with a Special Focus on COVID-19 and Other Viral Infections. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:14163. [PMID: 37762464 PMCID: PMC10532175 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241814163] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2023] [Revised: 09/11/2023] [Accepted: 09/13/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Cell-free DNA (cfDNA) in human blood serum, urine, and other body fluids recently became a commonly used diagnostic marker associated with various pathologies. This is because cfDNA enables a much higher sensitivity than standard biochemical parameters. The presence of and/or increased level of cfDNA has been reported for various diseases, including viral infections, including COVID-19. Here, we review cfDNA in general, how it has been identified, where it can derive from, its molecular features, and mechanisms of release and clearance. General suitability of cfDNA for diagnostic questions, possible shortcomings and future directions are discussed, with a special focus on coronavirus infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Galina Hovhannisyan
- Department of Genetics and Cytology, Yerevan State University, Alex Manoogian 1, Yerevan 0025, Armenia; (G.H.); (T.H.); (R.A.)
| | - Tigran Harutyunyan
- Department of Genetics and Cytology, Yerevan State University, Alex Manoogian 1, Yerevan 0025, Armenia; (G.H.); (T.H.); (R.A.)
| | - Rouben Aroutiounian
- Department of Genetics and Cytology, Yerevan State University, Alex Manoogian 1, Yerevan 0025, Armenia; (G.H.); (T.H.); (R.A.)
| | - Thomas Liehr
- Jena University Hospital, Friedrich Schiller University, Institute of Human Genetics, Am Klinikum 1, 07747 Jena, Germany
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Jayashankar SS, Nasaruddin ML, Hassan MF, Dasrilsyah RA, Shafiee MN, Ismail NAS, Alias E. Non-Invasive Prenatal Testing (NIPT): Reliability, Challenges, and Future Directions. Diagnostics (Basel) 2023; 13:2570. [PMID: 37568933 PMCID: PMC10417786 DOI: 10.3390/diagnostics13152570] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2023] [Revised: 07/13/2023] [Accepted: 07/26/2023] [Indexed: 08/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Non-invasive prenatal testing was first discovered in 1988; it was primarily thought to be able to detect common aneuploidies, such as Patau syndrome (T13), Edward Syndrome (T18), and Down syndrome (T21). It comprises a simple technique involving the analysis of cell-free foetal DNA (cffDNA) obtained through maternal serum, using advances in next-generation sequencing. NIPT has shown promise as a simple and low-risk screening test, leading various governments and private organizations worldwide to dedicate significant resources towards its integration into national healthcare initiatives as well as the formation of consortia and research studies aimed at standardizing its implementation. This article aims to review the reliability of NIPT while discussing the current challenges prevalent among different communities worldwide.
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Affiliation(s)
- Siva Shantini Jayashankar
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Jalan Yaacob Latif, Bandar Tun Razak, Kuala Lumpur 56000, Malaysia; (S.S.J.); (M.L.N.); (N.A.S.I.)
| | - Muhammad Luqman Nasaruddin
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Jalan Yaacob Latif, Bandar Tun Razak, Kuala Lumpur 56000, Malaysia; (S.S.J.); (M.L.N.); (N.A.S.I.)
| | | | - Rima Anggrena Dasrilsyah
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universiti Putra Malaysia, Serdang 43400, Malaysia;
| | - Mohamad Nasir Shafiee
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Jalan Yaacob Latif, Bandar Tun Razak, Kuala Lumpur 56000, Malaysia;
| | - Noor Akmal Shareela Ismail
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Jalan Yaacob Latif, Bandar Tun Razak, Kuala Lumpur 56000, Malaysia; (S.S.J.); (M.L.N.); (N.A.S.I.)
| | - Ekram Alias
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Jalan Yaacob Latif, Bandar Tun Razak, Kuala Lumpur 56000, Malaysia; (S.S.J.); (M.L.N.); (N.A.S.I.)
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6
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Lannoo L, van der Meij KRM, Bekker MN, De Catte L, Deckers S, Devriendt K, Roggen N, Galjaard RJH, Gitsels-van der Wal J, Macville MVE, Martin L, Sistermans EA, Van Calsteren K, Van Keirsbilck J, Crombag N, Henneman L. A cross-country comparison of pregnant women's decision-making and perspectives when opting for non-invasive prenatal testing in the Netherlands and Belgium. Prenat Diagn 2023; 43:294-303. [PMID: 36740754 DOI: 10.1002/pd.6329] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2022] [Revised: 01/27/2023] [Accepted: 01/28/2023] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The Netherlands and Belgium have been among the first countries to offer non-invasive prenatal testing (NIPT) as a first-tier screening test. Despite similarities, differences exist in counseling modalities and test uptake. This study explored decision-making and perspectives of pregnant women who opted for NIPT in both countries. METHODS A questionnaire study was performed among pregnant women in the Netherlands (NL) (n = 587) and Belgium (BE) (n = 444) opting for NIPT, including measures on informed choice, personal and societal perspectives on trisomy 21, 18 and 13 and pregnancy termination. RESULTS Differences between Dutch and Belgian women were shown in the level of informed choice (NL: 83% vs. BE: 59%, p < 0.001), intention to terminate the pregnancy in case of confirmed trisomy 21 (NL: 51% vs. BE: 62%, p = 0.003) and trisomy 13/18 (NL: 80% vs. BE: 73%, p = 0.020). More Belgian women considered trisomy 21 a severe condition (NL: 64% vs. BE: 81%, p < 0.001). Belgian women more frequently indicated that they believed parents are judged for having a child with trisomy 21 (BE: 42% vs. NL: 16%, p < 0.001) and were less positive about quality of care and support for children with trisomy 21 (BE: 23% vs. NL: 62%, p < 0.001). CONCLUSION Differences in women's decision-making regarding NIPT and the conditions screened for may be influenced by counseling aspects and country-specific societal and cultural contexts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lore Lannoo
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Fetomaternal Medicine, University Hospitals Leuven, Leuven, Belgium.,Department of Development and Regeneration, Cluster Woman and Child, Biomedical Sciences, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Karuna R M van der Meij
- Department of Human Genetics, Amsterdam UMC, location Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.,Amsterdam Reproduction and Development Research Institute, Amsterdam UMC, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Mireille N Bekker
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Utrecht University Medical Center, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Luc De Catte
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Fetomaternal Medicine, University Hospitals Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Sarah Deckers
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Fetomaternal Medicine, University Hospitals Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Koenraad Devriendt
- Department of Human Genetics, University Hospitals Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Nele Roggen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, AZ Imelda, Bonheiden, Belgium
| | - Robert-Jan H Galjaard
- Department of Clinical Genetics, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center Rotterdam, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Janneke Gitsels-van der Wal
- Department of Midwifery Science, Amsterdam UMC, location Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.,Amsterdam Public Health Research Institute, Quality of Care, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Merryn V E Macville
- Department of Clinical Genetics, GROW School for Oncology and Reproduction, Maastricht University Medical Center+, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Linda Martin
- Department of Midwifery Science, Amsterdam UMC, location Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.,Midwifery Academy Amsterdam Groningen, InHolland, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Erik A Sistermans
- Department of Human Genetics, Amsterdam UMC, location Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.,Amsterdam Reproduction and Development Research Institute, Amsterdam UMC, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Kristel Van Calsteren
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Fetomaternal Medicine, University Hospitals Leuven, Leuven, Belgium.,Department of Development and Regeneration, Cluster Woman and Child, Biomedical Sciences, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | | | - Neeltje Crombag
- Department of Development and Regeneration, Cluster Woman and Child, Biomedical Sciences, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Utrecht University Medical Center, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Lidewij Henneman
- Department of Human Genetics, Amsterdam UMC, location Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.,Amsterdam Reproduction and Development Research Institute, Amsterdam UMC, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
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7
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Liehr T, Harutyunyan T, Williams H, Weise A. Non-Invasive Prenatal Testing in Germany. Diagnostics (Basel) 2022; 12:diagnostics12112816. [PMID: 36428876 PMCID: PMC9689121 DOI: 10.3390/diagnostics12112816] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2022] [Revised: 11/09/2022] [Accepted: 11/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
In the short 10 years following the introduction of non-invasive prenatal testing (NIPT), it has been adapted in many countries around the world as a standard screening test. In this review, this development was analyzed with a special focus on Germany. As a result, it can be stated that all known advantages of NIPT apart from "compensating for having no access to centers offering invasive diagnostics" are valid for Germany. In addition, following a review of the international literature, all documented issues with NIPT are also observed in Germany. However, the German Gene Diagnostics Act (GenDG) addresses a number of these issues, for example, the regulations by GenDG hamper induced abortions, based exclusively on an abnormal NIPT result. At the same time, GenDG has created new problems, as a possible collusion between the "right not to know with regard to parts of the examination result" may occur, or that the sex of the fetus must not be reported to the pregnant woman before the 12th week of gestation. Main conclusions drawn are that appropriate training and the continuing education of the physicians providing NIPT-related counseling are needed, as well as the provision of balanced and comprehensive information for the pregnant woman or the couple that is imperative.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas Liehr
- Jena University Hospital, Friedrich Schiller University, Institute of Human Genetics, 07747 Jena, Germany
- Correspondence:
| | - Tigran Harutyunyan
- Department of Genetics and Cytology, Yerevan State University, Yerevan 0001, Armenia
| | | | - Anja Weise
- Jena University Hospital, Friedrich Schiller University, Institute of Human Genetics, 07747 Jena, Germany
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Mungmunpuntipantip R, Wiwanitkit V. Comment on ‘Optimisation of individual cardiovascular risk assessment using a commercial test for genetic polymorphisms’. Acta Cardiol 2022:1. [DOI: 10.1080/00015385.2022.2135239] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Affiliation(s)
| | - Viroj Wiwanitkit
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University Centre for Research & Development, Chandigarh University Gharuan, Mohali, Punjab, India
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9
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Feresin A, Stampalija T, Cappellani S, Bussani R, Faletra F, Murru F, Ulivi S, Suergiu S, Savarese P, Pedicini A, Policicchio M, Ruggiero R, Bosio B, Savarese G, Ardisia C. Case Report: Two cases of apparent discordance between non-invasive prenatal testing (NIPT) and amniocentesis resulting in feto-placental mosaicism of trisomy 21. Issues in diagnosis, investigation and counselling. Front Genet 2022; 13:982508. [PMID: 36386832 PMCID: PMC9642548 DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2022.982508] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2022] [Accepted: 09/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
The sequencing of cell-free fetal DNA in the maternal plasma through non-invasive prenatal testing (NIPT) is an accurate genetic screening test to detect the most common fetal aneuploidies during pregnancy. The extensive use of NIPT, as a screening method, has highlighted the limits of the technique, including false positive and negative results. Feto-placental mosaicism is a challenging biological issue and is the most frequent cause of false positive and negative results in NIPT screening, and of discrepancy between NIPT and invasive test results. We are reporting on two cases of feto-placental mosaicism of trisomy 21, both with a low-risk NIPT result, identified by ultrasound signs and a subsequent amniocentesis consistent with a trisomy 21. In both cases, after the pregnancy termination, cytogenetic and/or cytogenomic analyses were performed on the placenta and fetal tissues, showing in the first case a mosaicism of trisomy 21 in both the placenta and the fetus, but a mosaicism in the placenta and a complete trisomy 21 in the fetus in the second case. These cases emphasize the need for accurate and complete pre-test NIPT counselling, as well as to identify situations at risk for a possible false negative NIPT result, which may underestimate a potential pathological condition, such as feto-placental mosaicism or fetal trisomy. Post-mortem molecular autopsy may discriminate between placental, fetal and feto-placental mosaicism, and between complete or mosaic fetal chromosomal anomalies. A multidisciplinary approach in counselling, as well as in the interpretation of biological events, is essential for the clarification of complex cases, such as feto-placental mosaicisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Agnese Feresin
- Department of Medicine, Surgery and Health Sciences, University of Trieste, Trieste, Italy
| | - Tamara Stampalija
- Department of Medicine, Surgery and Health Sciences, University of Trieste, Trieste, Italy
- Institute for Maternal and Child Health, IRCCS Burlo Garofolo, Trieste, Italy
| | - Stefania Cappellani
- Institute for Maternal and Child Health, IRCCS Burlo Garofolo, Trieste, Italy
| | - Rossana Bussani
- Department of Medicine, Surgery and Health Sciences, University of Trieste, Trieste, Italy
- Unit of Pathologic Anatomy and Histology, Asugi, Trieste, Italy
| | - Flavio Faletra
- Institute for Maternal and Child Health, IRCCS Burlo Garofolo, Trieste, Italy
| | - Flora Murru
- Institute for Maternal and Child Health, IRCCS Burlo Garofolo, Trieste, Italy
| | - Sheila Ulivi
- Institute for Maternal and Child Health, IRCCS Burlo Garofolo, Trieste, Italy
| | - Sarah Suergiu
- Institute for Maternal and Child Health, IRCCS Burlo Garofolo, Trieste, Italy
| | | | | | | | | | - Barbara Bosio
- Department of Medicine, Surgery and Health Sciences, University of Trieste, Trieste, Italy
| | | | - Carmela Ardisia
- Institute for Maternal and Child Health, IRCCS Burlo Garofolo, Trieste, Italy
- *Correspondence: Carmela Ardisia,
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10
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Edwards S, Laing N. Genetic Counselling Needs for Reproductive Genetic Carrier Screening: A Scoping Review. J Pers Med 2022; 12:1699. [PMID: 36294838 PMCID: PMC9605645 DOI: 10.3390/jpm12101699] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2022] [Revised: 10/03/2022] [Accepted: 10/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Reproductive genetic carrier screening provides individuals and couples with information regarding their risk of having a child affected by an autosomal recessive or X-linked recessive genetic condition. This information allows them the opportunity to make reproductive decisions in line with their own beliefs and values. Traditionally, carrier screening has been accessed by family members of affected individuals. In recent years, improvements to accessibility and updates to recommendations suggest that all women planning or in early pregnancy should be offered reproductive genetic carrier screening. As uptake moves towards the population scale, how can the genetic counselling needs of such large-scale screening be met? A scoping review of the literature was performed to ascertain what the genetic counselling needs of reproductive genetic carrier screening are, and what future research is needed. Four broad themes were identified in the existing literature: (1) The offer-when and in what context to offer screening; (2) Information-the importance of and what to include in education, and pre- and post-test counselling; (3) Who and how-who the genetic counselling is performed by and how; (4) Personalization-how do we find the balance between standardized and individualized approaches? Based on the existing literature, we present a set of recommendations for consideration in implementing population-scale reproductive genetic carrier screening as well as suggested areas for future research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samantha Edwards
- Harry Perkins Institute of Medical Research and Centre for Medical Research, University of Western Australia, QEII Medical Centre, Nedlands, WA 6009, Australia
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11
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Bu X, Zhou S, Li X, Li S, Li H, Ding S, He J, Linpeng S. A retrospective single-center analysis of prenatal diagnosis and follow-up of 626 chinese patients with positive non-invasive prenatal screening results. Front Genet 2022; 13:965106. [PMID: 36199578 PMCID: PMC9527272 DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2022.965106] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2022] [Accepted: 08/03/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
This study explored the diagnostic efficiency of different prenatal diagnostic approaches for women with positive non-invasive prenatal screening (NIPS) results by analyzing their clinical information and pregnancy outcomes. We collected data on 626 NIPS-positive pregnant women from January 2017 to June 2021 and arranged subsequent prenatal diagnostic operations for them after genetic counseling, along with long-term intensive follow-up. A total of 567 women accepted invasive prenatal diagnosis (IPD) (90.58%), and 262 cases were confirmed as true positives for NIPS. The positive predictive values for trisomies 21 (T21), 18 (T18), and 13 (T13); sex chromosome aneuploidies (SCAs); rare autosomal trisomies (RATs); and microdeletion and microduplication syndromes (MMS) were 81.13%, 37.93%, 18.42%, 48.83%, 18.37%, and 41.67%, respectively. Discordant results between NIPS and IPD were observed in 48 cases, with the discordance rate being 8.47%. Additionally, there were 43 cases with discordant results between karyotyping and chromosomal microarray analysis (CMA)/copy number variation sequencing. Additional reporting of RATs and MMS with routine NIPS that only detects T21/T18/T13 and SCAs can yield more accurate diagnoses. However, NIPS cannot be used as a substitute for IPD owing to its high false positive rate and discordance with other diagnostic methods. Therefore, we recommend CMA combined with karyotyping as the preferred method for accurately diagnosing NIPS-positive women.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiufen Bu
- Department of Genetics and Eugenics, Changsha Hospital for Maternal & Child Health Care Affiliated to Hunan Normal University, Changsha, China
| | - Shihao Zhou
- Department of Genetics and Eugenics, Changsha Hospital for Maternal & Child Health Care Affiliated to Hunan Normal University, Changsha, China
| | - Xu Li
- Department of Basic Medicine, Yiyang Medical College, Yiyang, China
| | - Shihong Li
- Department of Genetics and Eugenics, Changsha Hospital for Maternal & Child Health Care Affiliated to Hunan Normal University, Changsha, China
| | - Hongyu Li
- Department of Genetics and Eugenics, Changsha Hospital for Maternal & Child Health Care Affiliated to Hunan Normal University, Changsha, China
| | - Siyi Ding
- Department of Genetics and Eugenics, Changsha Hospital for Maternal & Child Health Care Affiliated to Hunan Normal University, Changsha, China
| | - Jun He
- Department of Genetics and Eugenics, Changsha Hospital for Maternal & Child Health Care Affiliated to Hunan Normal University, Changsha, China
- *Correspondence: Siyuan Linpeng, ; Jun He,
| | - Siyuan Linpeng
- Department of Genetics and Eugenics, Changsha Hospital for Maternal & Child Health Care Affiliated to Hunan Normal University, Changsha, China
- *Correspondence: Siyuan Linpeng, ; Jun He,
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12
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Chen J, Zhang Y, Zhang M. Prenatal diagnosis and genetic counseling of a paternally inherited microduplication 18q11.1 to 18q11.2 in a chinese family. Mol Cytogenet 2022; 15:38. [PMID: 36050713 PMCID: PMC9434864 DOI: 10.1186/s13039-022-00617-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2022] [Accepted: 08/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Copy number variants are a substantial source of pathogenic or normal genome variations. Chromosomal imbalances of several megabasepair are normally harmful for the affected person. Still, rarely reported are so-called “unbalanced chromosome abnormalities” (UBCAs), which are either losses or gains or equally large genomic regions, but the carrier is only minimally clinically affected even no clinically affected. The knowledge of such UBCAs is imperative also in noninvasive prenatal testing (NIPT) or chromosomal microarray analysis. Case presentation A paternally inherited dup(18)(q11.1q11.2) was identified in a over two generations in a Chinese family. The affected region encompasses 25 genes, among which GATA6 is expressed in fetal endothelial cells and mesodermal cells. GATA6 duplications and /or mutations have been seen in cases with congenital heart disease but also non-affected individuals, suggesting incomplete penetrance and variable expressivity. Conclusions Duplications in the region of chromosome 18q11 have been rare reported previously in clinically healthy persons. Here a further family with an UBCA in 18q11 is added to the literature, suggesting a careful genetic counselling in prenatal diagnosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juan Chen
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Renmin Hospital, Hubei University of Medicine, Shiyan, Hubei, People's Republic of China.,Prenatal Diagnosis Center, Renmin Hospital, Hubei University of Medicine, Shiyan, Hubei, People's Republic of China.,Hubei Clinical Research Center for Reproductive Medicine, Shiyan, Hubei, People's Republic of China.,Biomedical Engineering College, Hubei University of Medicine, Shiyan, Hubei, People's Republic of China
| | - Ying Zhang
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Renmin Hospital, Hubei University of Medicine, Shiyan, Hubei, People's Republic of China.,Prenatal Diagnosis Center, Renmin Hospital, Hubei University of Medicine, Shiyan, Hubei, People's Republic of China.,Hubei Clinical Research Center for Reproductive Medicine, Shiyan, Hubei, People's Republic of China.,Biomedical Engineering College, Hubei University of Medicine, Shiyan, Hubei, People's Republic of China
| | - Mingxi Zhang
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Internal Medicine, Wuhan Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Wuhan, Hubei, People's Republic of China.
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13
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Liehr T. False-positives and false-negatives in non-invasive prenatal testing (NIPT): what can we learn from a meta-analyses on > 750,000 tests? Mol Cytogenet 2022; 15:36. [PMID: 35986330 PMCID: PMC9392255 DOI: 10.1186/s13039-022-00612-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2022] [Accepted: 07/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract
Background
Non-invasive prenatal testing (NIPT) has had an incomparable triumph in prenatal diagnostics in the last decade. Over 1400 research articles have been published, predominantly praising the advantages of this test.
Methods
The present study identified among the 1400 papers 24 original and one review paper, which were suited to re-evaluate the efficacy of > 750,000 published NIPT-results. Special attention was given to false-positive and false-negative result-rates. Those were discussed under different aspects—mainly from a patient-perspective.
Results
A 27: 1 rate of false-positive compared to false-negative NIPT results was found. Besides, according to all reported, real-positive, chromosomally aberrant NIPT cases, 90% of those would have been aborted spontaneously before birth. These findings are here discussed under aspects like (i) How efficient is NIPT compared to first trimester screening? (ii) What are the differences in expectations towards NIPT from specialists and the public? and (iii) There should also be children born suffering from not by NIPT tested chromosomal aberrations; why are those never reported in all available NIPT studies?
Conclusions
Even though much research has been published on NIPT, unbiased figures concerning NIPT and first trimester screening efficacy are yet not available. While false positive rates of different NIPT tests maybe halfway accurate, reported false-negative rates are most likely too low. The latter is as NIPT-cases with negative results for tested conditions are yet not in detail followed up for cases with other genetic or teratogenic caused disorders. This promotes an image in public, that NIPT is suited to replace all invasive tests, and also to solve the problem of inborn errors in humans, if not now then in near future. Overall, it is worth discussing the usefulness of NIPT in practical clinical application. Particularly, asking for unbiased figures concerning the efficacy of first trimester-screening compared to NIPT, and for really comprehensive data on false-positive and false-negative NIPT results.
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14
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Dharmadhikari AV, Pereira EM, Andrews CC., Macera M, Harkavy N, Wapner R, Jobanputra V, Levy B, Ganapathi M, Liao J. Case Report: Prenatal Identification of a De Novo Mosaic Neocentric Marker Resulting in 13q31.1→qter Tetrasomy in a Mildly Affected Girl. Front Genet 2022; 13:906077. [PMID: 35928455 PMCID: PMC9343796 DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2022.906077] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2022] [Accepted: 06/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Partial tetrasomy of distal 13q has a reported association with a variable phenotype including microphthalmia, ear abnormalities, hypotelorism, facial dysmorphisms, urogenital defects, pigmentation and skin defects, and severe learning difficulties. A wide range of mosaicism has been reported, which may, to some extent, account for the variable spectrum of observed phenotypes. We report here a pregnancy conceived using intrauterine insemination in a 32-year-old female with a history of infertility. Non-invasive prenatal screening (NIPS) was performed in the first trimester which reported an increased risk for trisomy 13. Follow-up cytogenetic workup using chorionic villus sampling (CVS) and amniotic fluid samples showed a mosaic karyotype with a small supernumerary marker chromosome (sSMC). Chromosomal microarray analysis (CMA) identified a mosaic 31.34 Mb terminal gain on chr13q31.1q34 showing the likely origin of the sSMC to distal chromosome 13q. Follow-up metaphase FISH testing suggested an inverted duplication rearrangement involving 13q31q34 in the marker chromosome and the presence of a neocentromere. At 21 months of age, the proband has a history of gross motor delay, hypotonia, left microphthalmia, strabismus, congenital anomaly of the right optic nerve, hemangiomas, and a tethered spinal cord. Postnatal chromosome analyses in buccal, peripheral blood, and spinal cord ligament tissues were consistent with the previous amniocentesis and CVS findings, and the degree of mosaicism varied from 25 to 80%. It is often challenging to pinpoint the chromosomal identity of sSMCs using banding cytogenetics. A combination of low-pass genome sequencing of cell-free DNA, chromosomal microarray, and FISH enabled the identification of the precise chromosomal rearrangement in this patient. This study adds to the growing list of clinically identified neocentric marker chromosomes and is the first described instance of partial tetrasomy 13q31q34 identified in a mosaic state prenatally. Since NIPS is now being routinely performed along with invasive testing for advanced maternal age, an increased prenatal detection rate for mosaic sSMCs in otherwise normal pregnancies is expected. Future studies investigating how neocentromeres mediate gene expression changes could help identify potential epigenetic targets as treatment options to rescue or reverse the phenotypes seen in patients with congenital neocentromeres.
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Affiliation(s)
- Avinash V. Dharmadhikari
- Department of Pathology & Cell Biology, Columbia University Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons and New York-Presbyterian Morgan Stanley Children’s Hospital, New York, NY, United States
| | - Elaine M. Pereira
- Department of Pediatrics, Columbia University Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons and New York-Presbyterian Morgan Stanley Children’s Hospital, New York, NY, United States
| | - Carli C . Andrews
- Department of Pediatrics, Columbia University Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons, New York, NY, United States
| | - Michael Macera
- Clinical Cytogenetics Laboratory, New York Presbyterian Morgan Stanley Children’s Hospital, New York, NY, United States
| | - Nina Harkavy
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Columbia University Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons and New York-Presbyterian Morgan Stanley Children’s Hospital, New York, NY, United States
| | - Ronald Wapner
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Columbia University Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons and New York-Presbyterian Morgan Stanley Children’s Hospital, New York, NY, United States
| | - Vaidehi Jobanputra
- Department of Pathology & Cell Biology, Columbia University Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons and New York-Presbyterian Morgan Stanley Children’s Hospital, New York, NY, United States
| | - Brynn Levy
- Department of Pathology & Cell Biology, Columbia University Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons and New York-Presbyterian Morgan Stanley Children’s Hospital, New York, NY, United States
- Department of Pediatrics, Columbia University Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons, New York, NY, United States
| | - Mythily Ganapathi
- Department of Pathology & Cell Biology, Columbia University Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons and New York-Presbyterian Morgan Stanley Children’s Hospital, New York, NY, United States
| | - Jun Liao
- Department of Pathology & Cell Biology, Columbia University Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons and New York-Presbyterian Morgan Stanley Children’s Hospital, New York, NY, United States
- *Correspondence: Jun Liao,
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15
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Paneque M, Serra Juhé C, Melegh B, Carreira I, Moog U, Liehr T. Erratum zu: Über die Notwendigkeit der Anerkennung von sog. Kernberufsgruppen innerhalb der genetischen Gesundheitsversorgung in Europa. MED GENET-BERLIN 2022; 34:189-191. [PMID: 38835907 PMCID: PMC11006359 DOI: 10.1515/medgen-2022-2122] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/06/2024]
Abstract
[This corrects the article DOI: 10.1515/medgen-2022-2116.].
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Affiliation(s)
- Milena Paneque
- i3S – Instituto de Investigação e Inovação em Saúde, Universidade do Porto, Porto, Portugal
- IBMC – Institute for Molecular and Cell Biology, Universidade do Porto, Porto, Portugal
- Centre for Predictive and Preventive Genetics (CGPP), Universidade do Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - Clara Serra Juhé
- U705 CIBERER, Genetics Department, Hospital de la Santa Creu i Sant Pau, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, 08193Barcelona, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red en Enfermedades Raras (CIBERER), 28029Madrid, Spain
| | - Bela Melegh
- Department of Medical Genetics, University of Pécs, School of Medicine, Pécs, Hungary
| | - Isabel Carreira
- Cytogenetics and Genomics Laboratory, CACC, iCBR/CIMAGO, CIBB, Faculty of Medicine, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Ute Moog
- Institut für Humangenetik, Universität Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Thomas Liehr
- Universitätsklinik Jena, Friedrich Schiller Universität, Institut für Human Genetik, D-07740Jena, Germany
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16
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Gao Y, Ruan L, Cao L, Lu G, Hong Q, Zhang Q, Teng Y, Wang Z. Noninvasive isolation of transcervical trophoblast cells for fetal identification. J Obstet Gynaecol Res 2022; 48:1613-1620. [PMID: 35451149 DOI: 10.1111/jog.15256] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2021] [Revised: 03/16/2022] [Accepted: 03/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To identify trophoblastic cells retrieved from the cervix at a gestational age (GA) of 5-9 weeks by a noninvasive modality in fetuses. METHOD Transcervical cells (TCCs) were noninvasively extracted by a cytobrush using the Papanicolaou sampling method. TCCs were immunostained with antihuman leukocyte antigen (HLA)-G and anticytokeratin (CK)-7 antibodies to identify trophoblastic cells. Maternal finger blood, gestational sacs, and 20 trophoblastic cells collected by a laser-guided microscopic single-cell capture system were examined and compared by short tandem repeat (STR) genotyping. RESULTS Forty-nine pregnant women with GA of 5-9 weeks and six nonpregnant healthy women were included in the study. Trophoblastic cells were identified in 37 (75.5%) TCC samples, among which 34 (69.4%) were eligible for STR genotyping analysis. No trophoblastic cells were identified in nonpregnant healthy women. The STR genotyping analyses revealed 24 female and 10 male fetuses. TCC trophoblastic cells exhibited the same STR profiles as gestational sac and maternal blood in all samples, which indicated that the TCC trophoblastic cells originated from fetuses. CONCLUSION This primary study validated that trophoblastic cells from TCCs at GA 5-9 weeks originated from the fetus. Further studies are needed to verify whether this method can be used for early noninvasive prenatal diagnosis and paternity testing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yi Gao
- Obstetrics and Gynecology Department, the 8th People's Hospital of Shanghai, Shanghai, China
| | - Liping Ruan
- Obstetrics and Gynecology Department, the 8th People's Hospital of Shanghai, Shanghai, China
| | - Leilei Cao
- Obstetrics and Gynecology Department, the 8th People's Hospital of Shanghai, Shanghai, China
| | - Gaochuan Lu
- Obstetrics and Gynecology Department, the 8th People's Hospital of Shanghai, Shanghai, China
| | - Qin Hong
- Obstetrics and Gynecology Department, the 8th People's Hospital of Shanghai, Shanghai, China
| | - Qian Zhang
- Obstetrics and Gynecology Department, the 8th People's Hospital of Shanghai, Shanghai, China
| | - Yincheng Teng
- Obstetrics and Gynecology Department, the 6th People's Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Zhijie Wang
- Obstetrics and Gynecology Department, the 8th People's Hospital of Shanghai, Shanghai, China
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17
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Paneque M, Serra Juhé C, Melegh B, Carreira I, Moog U, Liehr T. Über die Notwendigkeit der Anerkennung von sog. Kernberufsgruppen innerhalb der genetischen Gesundheitsversorgung in Europa. MED GENET-BERLIN 2022; 34:81-83. [PMID: 38836018 PMCID: PMC11006253 DOI: 10.1515/medgen-2022-2116] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/06/2024]
Affiliation(s)
- Milena Paneque
- i3S – Instituto de Investigação e Inovação em Saúde, Universidade do Porto, Porto, Portugal
- IBMC – Institute for Molecular and Cell Biology, Universidade do Porto, Porto, Portugal
- Centre for Predictive and Preventive Genetics (CGPP), Universidade do Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - Clara Serra Juhé
- U705 CIBERER, Genetics Department, Hospital de la Santa Creu i Sant Pau, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, 08193Barcelona, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red en Enfermedades Raras (CIBERER), 28029Madrid, Spain
| | - Bela Melegh
- Department of Medical Genetics, University of Pécs, School of Medicine, Pécs, Hungary
| | - Isabel Carreira
- Cytogenetics and Genomics Laboratory, CACC, iCBR/CIMAGO, CIBB, Faculty of Medicine, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Ute Moog
- Institut für Humangenetik, Universität Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Thomas Liehr
- Universitätsklinik Jena, Friedrich Schiller Universität, Institut für Human Genetik, D-07740Jena, Germany
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18
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Han M, Wei L, Liu F, Gao X. Familial microdeletion 18p11.32 to 18p11.31 in a Chinese family with normal phenotype. Mol Cytogenet 2022; 15:12. [PMID: 35331298 PMCID: PMC8943926 DOI: 10.1186/s13039-022-00590-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2022] [Accepted: 03/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Chromosomal imbalances of several megabasepair in size are normally deleterious for the carrier. Still, rarely reported are so-called “unbalanced chromosome abnormalities” (UBCAs), which are either gains or losses or equally large genomic regions, but the affected person is not or only minimally clinically affected. The knowledge of such UBCAs is imperative also in chromosomal microarray analysis (CMA) or noninvasive prenatal testing (NIPT). Case presentation A maternally inherited del(18)(p11.32p11.31) was identified in a over two generations in a Chinese family with normal phenotype. The affected region encompasses 19 genes, among which TGIF1 is expressed in fetal and adult nervous system. TGIF1 deletions and /or mutations have been seen in cases with holoprosencephaly but also non-affected individuals, suggesting incomplete penetrance and variable expressivity. Conclusions Deletions in the terminal region of chromosome 18 short arm have been reported previously in clinically healthy persons. Here a further family with an UBCA in 18p11.3 is added to the literature, suggesting a careful genetic counselling in comparable, especially prenatal cases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Miaomiao Han
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Maternal and Child Health Hospital of Dongxihu District, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Lei Wei
- Department of Center for Reproductive Medicine, TaiHe Hospital, Hubei University of Medicine, Shiyan, Hubei, People's Republic of China
| | - Fang Liu
- Department of Gynecology, Huangshi Love & Health Hospital Affiliated To Hubei Polytechnic University, Huangshi, Hubei, People's Republic of China
| | - Xia Gao
- Department of Obstetrics, Renmin Hospital, Hubei University of Medicine, Shiyan, Hubei, People's Republic of China.
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