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The Florescent In Situ Hybridization (FISH) testing method is used to screen for spontaneous mutations of certain chromosomes, which can indicate the presence of a genetic disorder, such as Down’s syndrome. We currently can screen for the following chromosomes: X, Y, 13, 15, 16, 17, 18, 21 and 22. FISH testing is typically indicated for patients of advanced maternal age or those with a history of recurrent miscarriages, multiple unsuccessful IVF attempts or severe male factor infertility.
The procedure is performed at the Abington IVF and Genetics, Toll Center for Reproductive Sciences at Abington Memorial Hospital in Abington, Pennsylvania, and results are usually available within 36 hours.
In addition to spontaneous chromosomal mutations, we can screen for translocations, which occur when two pieces of nonmatching chromosomes are stuck together. Sperm or eggs from individuals with a translocation can cause the resulting embryo to have an unbalanced amount of genetic material, leading to embryo death, miscarriage, spontaneous abortion or the birth of an infant with substantial medical problems.
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