How is genetic testing for genetic disorders done?
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Genetic testing can be done on samples of a person's hair, skin, blood, other tissues, or amniotic fluid in prenatal testing. Technicians in laboratories examine chromosomes and DNA in cells for changes, or mutations. Reports are sent back to your doctor or a genetic counselor. Before a person takes a genetic test, her or she is educated about the risks, benefits, and limitations. This procedure is called informed consent.
Genetic testing can be done on samples of a person's hair, skin, blood, other tissues, or amniotic fluid in prenatal testing. Technicians in laboratories examine chromosomes and DNA in cells for changes, or mutations. Reports are sent back to your... More -
Healthwise answered:A genetic test can be done using almost any cell or tissue from the body.
Blood sample from a heel stick: If genetic testing is done on a baby, a heel stick will be done instead of a blood draw from a vein. For a heel stick blood sample, several drops of blood are collected from the heel of the baby. The skin of the heel is cleaned with alcohol and then pricked with a small, sterile lancet. Several drops of blood are collected inside circles on a specially prepared piece of paper. When enough blood has been collected, a gauze pad or cotton ball is placed over the puncture site. Pressure is applied to the puncture site briefly, and then a small bandage is usually placed over it.
Blood sample from a vein: The health professional drawing your blood will:
- Wrap an elastic band around your upper arm to stop the flow of blood. This makes the veins below the band larger so it is easier to put a needle into the vein.
- Clean the needle site with alcohol.
- Put the needle into the vein. More than one needle stick may be needed.
- Attach a tube to the needle to fill it with blood.
- Remove the band from your arm when enough blood is collected.
- Apply a gauze pad or cotton ball over the needle site as the needle is removed.
- Apply pressure to the site and then a bandage.
Cell sample from a fetus: For this type of testing, cells are collected from the fetus using amniocentesis or chorionic villus sampling.
A genetic test can be done using almost any cell or tissue from the body. Blood sample from a heel stick: If genetic testing is done on a baby, a heel stick will be done instead of a blood draw from a vein. For a heel stick blood sample,... More
