Preimplantation Genetic Diagnosis (PGD) Info

Also known as embryo screening, preimplantation genetic diagnosis (PGD) focuses on the procedure performed on embryos before implantation. It is a way for prenats to find out about any genetic defects in embryos which are created through in vitro fertilization (IVF) before pregnancy.

The preimplantation genetic screening (PGS) refers to the techniques used to determine and examine the genetic traits of the embryo. Embryos that are unaffected are then transferred to the uterus for implantation. If the results are unfavorable, the couple would need to decide on whether to terminate the pregnancy.

Some of the most frequently diagnosed autosomal recessive disorders are cystic fibrosis, beta-thalassemia, sickle cell disease, and spinal muscular atrophy type 1. The most common dominant diseases that have been diagnosed with PGD are Huntington's disease, Charcol-Marie-Tooth disease, myotonic dystrophy. Additional genetic disorders and defects are Yay-Sachs, Gaucher's disease, mental retardation, Down's syndrome, etc.

This genetic test helps couples decide on what best to do in going forward with having a child. Any couples considering IVF treatment should consider the aneurploidy testing. For all women there is some percentage of embryos that could be abnormal. This procedure will also help to reduce the risks of miscarriage.

There are a small percentage of couples who may possibly have a chromosome abnormality themselves which known as a translocation. This is a structural abnormality that occurs within two chromosomes. The preimplantation testing can also be used to identify embryos with translocations.

There are controversial procedures that are performed with the preimplantation screening, such as determining if embryos are tissue matched to siblings who may be suffering from other diseases, ones that could possibly cured with a stem cell transplant or a bone marrow transplant. One of the most controversial procedures to be done is known as a gender selection. This procedure involves testing to determine their gender so that a couple would be able to decide on whether they can have a child of a particular sex.

To learn more about various infertility treatment options such as egg donors and egg donation and tubal reversal, it is important to visit our Dallas area fertility center.