Why It's Important Genetic Tests Are Undertaken Through Genetic Clinics
The Genetics.ie team offers a variety of genetic testing services from our Blackrock clinic under the watchful eye of highly experienced Clinical Geneticist and founder Dr Willie Reardon. During his 35+ years at the world's leading hospitals, the single most common cause of medical error he’s seen is a lack of understanding of the link between gene testing, interpretation of results and recognition of disease causation.
Inherited Cardiovascular Diseases & When Genetic Screening Makes Sense
Genes are responsible for every aspect of the cardiovascular system, from the way heart cells communicate to the strength of blood cells. As such, a genetic mutation (disease-causing variant) in a single gene can increase the likelihood of developing heart disease.
Cardiovascular diseases can be inherited by children from their parents. This is why other family members are encouraged to undergo genetic screening for risk factors when a loved one is diagnosed with heart disease or heart disorder.
Explaining Cascade Testing for Genetic Conditions
At Genetics.ie, we regularly bring you blogs like this one to help our readers understand genetic testing and how it helps people obtain important information about their health. Today, we look at something known as Cascade Testing and who can benefit from it.
Cascade testing refers to the process that occurs when a genetic condition is discovered within the family, whereby other family members are informed and tested for the same condition. Many are not aware of having a genetic condition until its symptoms begin to affect their lives.
Medical Diagnoses & How Genetic Testing Can Help
The process of medical diagnosis involves the identification of a disease or condition from its signs and symptoms. Longstanding essential elements of this process are the clinical history of the disorder, and the appropriate clinical examination findings. These, in combination, inform the Consultant as to the direction of appropriate investigation.
Why Would a Genetic Test Be Suggested For My Child?
As a mother or father, you want what's best for your child and their health - it's simply part of being a parent. As such, when they experience health, or developmental concerns arise, it may be suggested that genetic testing be carried out. That said, it’s only in certain circumstances that this would be a suggested course of action.
What is Trisomy 21 & how is it Diagnosed?
Trisomy 21 is the most prevalent chromosomal anomaly in human beings, also referred to as Down Syndrome, Trisomy 21 is a genetic condition that's characterised by an extra chromosome.
Dr Willie Reardon: Expert Medico-Legal Witness Since 1996
Dr Willie Reardon is the founder of Genetics.ie, a company that offers a wide range of genetic testing services, from testing for muscular dystrophies to chromosome disorders. Today, we look at his experience as a medico-legal witness - something he has been doing around the world for over 25 years.
Myotonic Dystrophy Explained: A Genetic Condition We Specialise in Diagnosing
As part of a group of inherited disorders known as muscular dystrophies, myotonic dystrophy is the most common form that begins in adulthood. It is characterized by progressive muscle-weakening and wasting and it is a genetic condition, frequently overlooked, that we specialise in diagnosing.
What is Karyotyping & What Is Its Purpose?
The procedure known as Karyotyping is an investigation undertaken by a Clinical Geneticist to examine the chromosomes of an individual patient. The purpose of examining the chromosomes is to determine whether any structural issues or abnormalities exist within them
What Is Clinical Genetics?
What is clinical genetics? Well, essentially, clinical geneticists are Doctors that specialise in the identification and diagnosis of genetic diseases. Moreover, clinical genetics pertains to the diagnosis, management and counselling of patients affected by genetic conditions, as well as their families.
Genetic Testing & Why the Information it Provides Is Vital
Found within the strands of your unique DNA are genes, which are passed down to you by your parents, playing a central role in how your body regulates and grows. However, when these genes result in abnormality, the natural consequence of which is a genetic disease.