What is a chromosome microarray?
Chromosomal microarray analysis (CMA) is a technology used for the detection of clinically-significant microdeietions or duplications, with a high sensitivity for submicroscopic aberrations.
What can chromosomal microarray detect?
What does chromosomal microarray detect? Chromosomal microarray (CMA) testing looks for extra (duplicated) or missing (deleted) chromosomal segments, sometimes called copy number variants (CNVs).
What is a microarray test used for?
Also called a Detailed Chromosome Test or Array A microarray is a special genetic test that looks in detail at a person’s chromosomes to see if there are any extra or missing sections which might account for problems they have been experiencing.
What is a CMA genetic test?
Chromosomal microarray analysis (CMA) provides comprehensive genetic testing for the most common chromosomal conditions as well as a large number of severe genetic conditions not detected by traditional chromosome analysis.
How is chromosomal microarray testing done?
A blood sample is preferred for microarray analysis. Sometimes spit (saliva) or a tissue sample (like skin) may be used. This test compares the patient’s sample to a normal control sample to find very small missing or extra chromosome pieces that cannot be seen under a microscope.
How is microarray performed?
To perform a microarray analysis, mRNA molecules are typically collected from both an experimental sample and a reference sample. For example, the reference sample could be collected from a healthy individual, and the experimental sample could be collected from an individual with a disease like cancer.
How much does chromosomal microarray cost?
Karyotyping is done by many hospital laboratories and it is available commercially for a cost between $500-$700. A new method of testing, the chromosomal microarray, is able to detect copy number variants with much finer resolution and is not reliant on staining and visual resolution limits.
Can chromosomal microarray detect autism?
Chromosomal microarray analysis should be considered as a first-tier genetic diagnostic test for autism spectrum disorders because of its strong ability to detect chromosomal abnormalities in patients with these conditions, findings from a study suggested.