DNA DIAGNOSIS FOR THE PRACTICING OBSTETRICIAN

Laboratory advances in molecular genetics have resulted in numerous cl inical applications for DNA analysis. Currently, because of cost, comp lexity, and resource limitations, DNA analysis is not used routinely f or prenatal screening, but rather is targeted towards families at risk for an inherited condition. This article discusses the types of DNA a nalyses that are currently performed, the possible tissue sources of D NA for prenatal diagnosis, and the indications for DNA testing in obst etric practice. Internet addresses for the most up-to-date genetic inf ormation on a specific condition are given in this article.