Preimplantation Genetic Diagnosis Advantages And Disadvantages

What is Preimplantation Genetic Diagnosis (PGD)?

Preimplantation genetic diagnosis (PGD) is a test used prior to in vetro fertilization (IVF) to determine if an embryo carries a genetic disease or disorder. There are advantages and disadvantages to PGD, and is not required before IVF. It’s recommended for couples who carry a genetic disease or condition, and are at risk for passing it on to a child.

What are the Advantages of PGD?

There are a number of advantages to PGD. The process can test more than 100 different genetic conditions including cystic fibrosis, sickle cell anemia, hemophilia, to name a few, and is performed prior to implantation in the uterus during IVF.

PGD allows couples to decide whether or not they wish to continue with

The embryos with abnormal test results can be frozen, and used to help find a cure for such conditions.

Are there Disadvantages of PGD?

Although PGD will reduce the risk of having a child with a genetic disease, the process isn’t guaranteed. Some diseases are undetected during PGD and only show up as the child grows and matures.

During the biopsy process of PGD, the embryos are at risk of being damaged, especially during the third day of biopsy. If time allows, it’s recommended the embryo be biopsied on the fifth or sixth day, to reduce the risk of weakening the embryo. Damaged embryos will not result in a successful pregnancy.

Mosaicism can also present a problem during PGD. Mosaicism is a condition in which cells within the same embryo have a different genetic makeup, and can affect the outcome of test results done during PGD. There are also risk that you may receive false negative or inclusive test

PGD follows the same process of IVF. After the fertilized eggs are retrieved, the embryos divide into eight cells, and on the third day (in some cases fifth or sixth day), the PGD process begins. The following steps are taken to determine if an embryo carries a genetic disease:

• One or two cells are removed from the embryo and tested to determine if it carries an abnormal gene.

• The embryos without an abnormal gene are identified and upon approval by the individual, can be planted in the uterus.

• Additional embryos that are undamaged and without abnormal genes can be frozen, while the damages or problematic embryos are discarded.

For biopsies on the third day, the healthy embryo will be implanted on the fifth or sixth day. Biopsies that are done on the fifth or sixth day, will consist of more than eight cells, offering more detailed test results.

Test results are typically reported five days after the egg retrieval and IVF are performed.

What Costs are Associated with