For patientsGenetics counsellingFrequently asked questions

Most people are referred for a medical genetics appointment so that a member of the genetics team can answer their questions about a genetic condition affecting them or other members of their family.

 

Typical reasons for a referral to a genetics clinic include:

• A person with a genetic condition in the family wants to know the risk to he/she will develop the condition or pass it to their children.
  
  

• A person worried about a family history of cancer wants to know if they are at increased risk and to discuss their options.
  
  

• A child with problems such as developmental delay, learning difficulties or congenital anomalies (eg. heart defect, deafness) may be referred if there is concern that there may be a genetic basis to the child’s condition. If a child has multiple problems, the geneticist may be asked to assess whether there may be a unifying genetic diagnosis.
  
  

• Parents of a child with a genetic condition or a condition that may have a genetic cause may wish advice about the likelihood of similar problems recurring in a future pregnancy
  
  

• A genetic test eg. chromosome analysis arranged by a paediatrician, hospital specialist or GP has given an atypical/unusual result or has diagnosed a genetic disorder.