Document Detail


DNA testing for fragile X syndrome in schools for learning difficulties.
MedLine Citation:
PMID:  7717734     Owner:  NLM     Status:  MEDLINE    
Abstract/OtherAbstract:
Fragile X syndrome is the most common inherited cause of mental retardation. Early diagnosis is important not only for appropriate management of individuals but also to identify carriers who are unaware of their high risk of having an affected child. The disorder is associated with a cytogenetically visible fragile site (FRAXA) at Xq27.3, caused by amplification of a (CGG)n repeat sequence within the gene at this locus designated FMR1. Clinical and molecular studies have been undertaken to screen for fragile X syndrome in 154 children with moderate and severe learning difficulties of previously unknown origin. Southern blot analysis of peripheral blood showed the characteristic abnormally large (CGG)n repeat sequence associated with fragile X syndrome in four of the 154 children. The findings were confirmed by cytogenetic observation of the fragile site and by further molecular studies. The families of the affected children were offered genetic counselling and DNA tests to determine their carrier status. These findings show that there are still unrecognised cases of fragile X syndrome. Given the difficulty of making a clinical diagnosis and the implications for families when the diagnosis is missed, screening in high risk populations may be justified. The issues involved in screening all children in special schools for fragile X syndrome are discussed.
Authors:
S F Slaney; A O Wilkie; M C Hirst; R Charlton; M McKinley; J Pointon; Z Christodoulou; S M Huson; K E Davies
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Publication Detail:
Type:  Journal Article    
Journal Detail:
Title:  Archives of disease in childhood     Volume:  72     ISSN:  1468-2044     ISO Abbreviation:  Arch. Dis. Child.     Publication Date:  1995 Jan 
Date Detail:
Created Date:  1995-05-15     Completed Date:  1995-05-15     Revised Date:  2009-11-19    
Medline Journal Info:
Nlm Unique ID:  0372434     Medline TA:  Arch Dis Child     Country:  ENGLAND    
Other Details:
Languages:  eng     Pagination:  33-7     Citation Subset:  AIM; IM    
Affiliation:
Department of Medical Genetics, Churchill Hospital, Oxford.
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MeSH Terms
Descriptor/Qualifier:
Adolescent
Blotting, Southern
Child
Child, Preschool
DNA / analysis*
Female
Follow-Up Studies
Fragile X Syndrome / genetics,  prevention & control*
Genetic Counseling
Genetic Testing / methods*
Heterozygote Detection
Humans
Learning Disorders / genetics*
Male
Pedigree
Risk Factors
Chemical
Reg. No./Substance:
9007-49-2/DNA
Comments/Corrections
Comment In:
Arch Dis Child. 1996 Jan;74(1):88   [PMID:  8660061 ]
Arch Dis Child. 1995 Jun;72(6):544   [PMID:  7618950 ]

From MEDLINE®/PubMed®, a database of the U.S. National Library of Medicine


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