Fragile X syndrome carrier screening in the prenatal genetic counseling setting

Genet Med. 2005 Apr;7(4):246-50. doi: 10.1097/01.gim.0000159898.90221.d3.

Abstract

Purpose: To document our experience with fragile X carrier screening.

Methods: In this study, 29,103 women with no known or suspected family history of fragile X syndrome were offered fragile X carrier screening during their prenatal genetic counseling visit. Screening acceptance was analyzed by referral indication, carrier frequencies documented, and prenatal outcome data presented.

Results: Overall, 7.9% accepted carrier screening. The premutation frequency was 1 in 382, and the intermediate allele frequency was 1 in 143.

Conclusions: Fragile X screening is a desirable option for some women seeking prenatal genetic counseling and should be made available to this population.

MeSH terms

  • Age Factors
  • Blotting, Southern
  • Female
  • Fragile X Mental Retardation Protein
  • Fragile X Syndrome / genetics*
  • Gene Frequency
  • Genetic Counseling*
  • Genetic Testing / methods
  • Genetic Testing / psychology*
  • Genetic Testing / statistics & numerical data*
  • Humans
  • Logistic Models
  • Maternal Exposure
  • Mutation / genetics
  • Nerve Tissue Proteins / genetics*
  • Patient Acceptance of Health Care*
  • Polymerase Chain Reaction
  • RNA-Binding Proteins / genetics*
  • Trinucleotide Repeat Expansion / genetics

Substances

  • FMR1 protein, human
  • Nerve Tissue Proteins
  • RNA-Binding Proteins
  • Fragile X Mental Retardation Protein