Is it possible for parents to detect myotonic dystrophy before having an affected child?
It is possible to identify if a pregnancy is associated with risk in a family at risk of myotonic dystrophy, by using certain tests done during pregnancy. Chorionic villus sampling (CVS), in which a small amount of placental tissue is removed, can be used to extract the DNA for genetic analysis. Cells in the amniotic fluid, derived by amniocentesis can also be tested to identify any gene defect. More sophisticated prenatal diagnostic tests are now available that assist the couple to have an unaffected child. Interested parents can seek the help of genetic counselors in the decision making process.
Related Questions
- My first child died soon after birth with the congenital form of Myotonic Dystrophy. What is this and will it happen again if I have another child?
- Is it possible for parents to detect myotonic dystrophy before having an affected child?
- What time after the parents left their child it is possible the child to be adopted?
