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- Preimplantation Genetic Diagnosis -
PGD -
Preimplantation Genetic Diagnosis - PGD is a
technique combining the recent significant advances in molecular
genetics and assisted reproductive technology. Preimplantation Genetic
Diagnosis - PGD allows physicians to identify various genetic diseases
in the embryo (fertilized egg with several divisions) prior to
implantation, that is, before the pregnancy is established. It is of
special value for those who are at risk of having children with serious
genetic problems.
The primary candidates for PGD are couples who might have been
previously discouraged from having children of their own because of the
danger of transferring genetic problems to the next generation. When the
possibility of a genetic abnormality is identified, they are faced with
the difficult decision to terminate the pregnancy. This decision is
especially difficult for women who have had trouble conceiving and
finally were able to get pregnant only through one of the assisted
reproductive technologies.
Therefore, PGD is of enormous value to patients who wish both to
conceive a normal child and avoid the dilemma of termination.
PGD is a procedure technically demanding and very complex, which
requires specials skills. For this reason, it is available only in a
handful of centers in this country.
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Institute for Reproductive Medicine and Genetic Testing site!
Copyright © 2001 Institute
for Reproductive Medicine and Genetic Testing
Last modified:
04/02/04
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