Raising hopes for disease treatment and prevention, but also the specter of discrimination and "designer genes," genetic testing is potentially one of the most socially explosive developments of our time. This book presents a current assessment of this rapidly evolving field, offering principles for actions and research and recommendations on key issues in genetic testing and screening. Advantages of early genetic knowledge are balanced with issues associated with such knowledge: availability of treatment, privacy and discrimination, personal decision-making, public health objectives, cost, and more. Among the important issues covered: Quality control in genetic testing. Appropriate roles for public agencies, private health practitioners, and laboratories. Value-neutral education and counseling for persons considering testing. Use of test results in insurance, employment, and other settings.

This entirely case-based book covers a broad cross-section of the practical issues frequently encountered in the day-to-day activities of a molecular genetic pathologist. The book is divided into four sections on the principal areas addressed in molecular genetic pathology (MGP): inherited diseases, hematopathology, solid tumors, and infectious diseases. The topics covered by the cases in each section include test selection, qualitative and quantitative laboratory techniques, test interpretation, prognostic and therapeutic considerations, ethical considerations, technical troubleshooting, and result reporting. This book will be ideal for trainees in MGP and clinical molecular genetics who require a practice-based preparation for board examinations. It will also be very useful for residents and fellows in medical specialties to which MGP is pertinent, and for practicing pathologists who want to learn more about the current practice of molecular diagnostics.

Advances in genetics and genomics are transforming medical practice, resulting in a dramatic growth of genetic testing in the health care system. The rapid development of new technologies, however, has also brought challenges, including the need for rigorous evaluation of the validity and utility of genetic tests, questions regarding the best ways to incorporate them into medical practice, and how to weigh their cost against potential short- and long-term benefits. As the availability of genetic tests increases so do concerns about the achievement of meaningful improvements in clinical outcomes, costs of testing, and the potential for accentuating medical care inequality. Given the rapid pace in the development of genetic tests and new testing technologies, An Evidence Framework for Genetic Testing seeks to advance the development of an adequate evidence base for genetic tests to improve patient care and treatment. Additionally, this report recommends a framework for decision-making regarding the use of genetic tests in clinical care.

This completely revised and updated second edition to integrates the many new technologies and insights now available for the diagnosis of genetic diseases. The authors use such methodologies as PCR optimization dosage analysis, mutation scanning, and quantitative fluorescent PCR for aneuploidy analysis, Neurofibromatosis type 1, and Duchenne muscular dystrophy. These largely generic methodologies may be adapted to most genetic conditions for which a molecular diagnosis is relevant, no matter how frequent or rare their incidence. Molecular Diagnosis of Genetic Diseases, Second Edition offers diagnostic molecular geneticists a unique opportunity to sharpen their scientific skills in the design of assays, their execution, and their interpretation.

A story of triumph over adversity, the strength that can be found in love and kindness, and the power of one couple to effect positive change in the world. 'A true love story' - Mia Freedman, founder of Mamamia Rachael and Jonathan were thrilled to welcome their baby Mackenzie into the world and to start their new lives as parents. Little did they know that in a few months they would be tested to endurance and beyond. Like many other couples starting a family, Rachael and Jonathan had no idea they were both carriers for a genetic disease, and that 1 in 20 babies are affected by genetic birth defects. Their daughter was one of those babies, and Mackenzie's Mission is Rachael's beautiful and heartwarming account of Mackenzie's life, child loss, and a journey through IVF. Determined that other couples should not go through the same heartbreak, Rachael and Jonathan are now champions for genetic testing. This is a story of triumph over adversity, the strength that can be found in kindness and the power of one couple to effect positive change in the world. 'Heartbreaking and inspiring. A must read for anyone who's lost a child, loved a child, or is desperately trying to for a child. You will cry but you will also find comfort in this incredible story.' - Erin Molan, sports presenter, Nine Network 'A book about grief and finding purpose through unimaginable loss and heartbreak. Beautiful Mackenzie will continue to have a powerful impact on this world through the work of her remarkable parents.' - Libby Trickett, Olympic swimming gold medallist and author of Beneath the Surface 'The most extraordinary story of a mother's love and her daughter's legacy.' - Marcia Leone, creator of Not So Mumsy

Presents clinical, biochemical, and genetic information concerning those metabolic anomalies grouped under inborn errors of metabolism.

Pompe disease, also known as acid maltase deficiency or acid alpha-glucosidase deficiency, in its most severe form results in a rapidly progressive, neonatal-onset skeletal and cardiomyopathy, leading to early infantile death without treatment. The development of treatment with recombinant enzyme replacement therapy radically transformed the clinical trajectory of those affected, enabling long-term ventilator-free survival with resolution of cardiomyopathy. These positive clinical outcomes resulted in the implementation of newborn screening programs for Pompe disease across the world. This Special Issue highlights some of the experiences of Pompe screening programs worldwide and discusses public policy and ethical issues elicited by presymptomatic screening for Pompe disease.

A multidisciplinary graduate and practitioner guide, first published in 2000, which offers the theory and application of stated choice methods.