Indications for Chromosome Analysis
Indications for Prenatal Diagnosis[edit | edit source]
Higher Age of Mother[edit | edit source]
The higher age of mother means more than 35 years. Chromosome analysis in this case, is taken like a part of the prenatal care. Although we can find abnormalities also in children of young mothers,higher age means higher risk. Nowadays it is discussed the role of the mother, comparing to the father's influence. Both of them can be a donor of chromosome abnormality, but mother´s germ cells are more vulnerable.
Positive Family Anamnesis[edit | edit source]
Some kinds of chromosomal abnormality in relative should also be an indication for chromosome analysis. Mainly chromosomal translocation or heritable chromosomal disturbances. Miscarriage in relatives also is a good indication for chromosomal analysis
Abnormal Findings in Screening[edit | edit source]
The good reason is for example id the intrauterine grown retardation or some abnormalities or malformations in ultrasound.
Stillbirths and Neonatal Deaths[edit | edit source]
In more than 10% of abortions is connected to some chromosome abnormality. It is important to examine both parents, because of prevention for next pregnancies.
Indications for Postnatal Diagnosis[edit | edit source]
Low Birth Weight[edit | edit source]
In comparison to other groups of children, those with chromosome abnormality have lower birth weight. For instance in newborns with trisomy 13 (Patau syndrome) and trisomy 18 (Edwards syndrome).
Health Problems in Newborns[edit | edit source]
A postnatal chromosome analysis is necessary if we can find some developmental delay, some dysmorphic features, mental retardation or inborn defects.
Fertility Problems[edit | edit source]
About 5% of all cases of infertility is connected with some chromosome abnormality. We have to think about it, when miscarriages occurred repeatedly. Chromosome abnormalities can be also a reason of disorders of menstruation cycle.
Exposure of Parents[edit | edit source]
Exposure to radiation represents a high risk. It can influence maternal germ cell for years. Especially some of the jobs in the health care are dangerous in this way (employees in radiology department in hospitals) and workers of nuclear plant or uranium mines. We have to be careful about exposure to chemical substances.