Genetic and genomic testing
Genetic testing, also known as genomic testing, identifies gene mutations that may lead to health issues. It mainly identifies some cancers and unusual and inherited medical disorders.
Why does a doctor suggest a genetic test?
A genetic test might be suggested because:
- Your physician suspects you may have a health issue brought on by a change in 1 or more of your genes.
- Member of your family or you suffer a disease brought on by genetic alterations.
- Some of your close relatives may have had an inherited form of cancer, and you or your partner may have a condition that you or your children may inherit.
Ask your doctor about getting a genetic test if you have any concerns
What can a genetic test reveal?
A genomic analysis can:
- Assist in identifying a child’s uncommon health issue
- Assist you in determining whether to have children and to what extent an inherited medical problem may affect you, your kid, or another family member.
- Determine if you are more susceptible to developing specific medical conditions, such as certain types of cancer
- help doctors decide what medication or therapy to administer to you
- Help doctors determine whether you can participate in clinical research.
Genetic test
Typically, a blood or saliva sample is used for a genetic test.
A genetic testing facility will examine the sample of blood, saliva, or body tissue.
Results from the test
The test’s outcomes might exemplify:
- You have a gene alteration known to result in a health condition.
- You don’t have a gene alteration known to cause a health issue.
- What the findings imply for your health is unclear (but doctors may have a better understanding of the results in the future)
You might be recommended to a genetic counselor after receiving your results so they can help you understand what they signify for you and your family.
Reviewed by – Dr. Priyanka, MBBS MD Microbiology
Page last reviewed: 16 JULY 2022