Genetic Testing

Theothermom

Hello,
I was asked by my IVF nurse if I wanted genetic testing done at my appointment today. She encouraged me to get a cystic fibrosis test among others. I just checked my donor's info and did not see if he was a carrier. Is there a way to find out?
Thanks so much.

jala

http://www.cryobank.com/_resources/pdf/Documents/SummaryOfRecords.pdf

all donors are tested for cystic fibrosis and would be disqualified if they tested positive...the above link is a sample report of testing done that would accompany your vial when shipped.

cryo-admin

Hi Theo -

While we do test for many of the most commonly occuring mutations of CF (which are present in the vast majority of carriers), there are still a number of very rare mutations that are not screened for in the standard testing. The good news is the occurance rate of these rare mutations is extremely low. If you turn out to be a carrier or have a family history of CF, and would like more information on risk factors, I recommend speaking with one of our Genetic Counselors.

For the record, My wife and I are both CF carriers but had no idea until after she was pregnant with our daughter. Fortunately, our daughter inherited my wife's mutation, but not mine (she also got her eyes, nose, and general stubborn disposition). :-) To be affected with the disease, a child must inherit CF mutations from both genetic parents.

Having been through quite a scare, I always think it is a great idea for everyone to be tested for CF prior to getting pregnant -- especially those NOT using a donor sperm.

Here is some basic info on our CF Screening:

Cystic Fibrosis Carrier Screening
Cystic fibrosis (CF) is a chronic illness that typically involves severe lung disease and gastrointestinal problems. People with CF often have a shortened lifespan. Cystic fibrosis is inherited in an autosomal recessive manner which means that both parents have to carry mutations for CF to be at risk of having a child affected with this disorder. CF occurs most often among individuals of Caucasian ancestry; approximately 1 out of every 25 healthy Northern European or Ashkenazi Jewish individuals carries a mutation for CF. Carrier screening for cystic fibrosis is performed by analyzing the donor's DNA for common mutations or changes in the gene for CF. CF carrier screening is performed on all of CCB's sperm donor applicants, regardless of the donor's ancestry.

Regards,

Scott
CCB