1
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Libman V, Friedlander Y, Chalk M, Hochner H, Shkedi-Rafid S. Receiving uncertain results from prenatal chromosomal microarray analysis: Women's decisions on continuation or termination of pregnancy. Prenat Diagn 2023; 43:773-780. [PMID: 36828779 DOI: 10.1002/pd.6337] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2022] [Revised: 02/18/2023] [Accepted: 02/20/2023] [Indexed: 02/26/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Chromosomal microarray analysis (CMA) may detect variants of uncertain clinical significance (VUS) and susceptibility loci (SL) with incomplete penetrance for neurodevelopmental disorders. This qualitative study provides empirical data on women's experiences with receiving such findings in pregnancy and their decisions regarding continuation or termination of the pregnancy. METHODS Semi-structured interviews were conducted with women who received a VUS and/or SL from prenatal CMA in the last 2-4 years and were analyzed using Grounded Theory. RESULTS The vast majority of women recalled being stressed by the findings. All women sought further advice and information to be able to decide whether to continue or terminate their pregnancy. The three pregnancies that were terminated have in common a de novo SL with a 10%-20% penetrance. Similar reasoning (coping with uncertainty, the quest for a perfect child, and a chance for recurrence in future pregnancies) led different women to contradicting conclusions regarding their pregnancies. All women felt satisfied with their decisions. CONCLUSION Although uncertain/probabilistic information commonly involves a psychological burden, it may also be perceived as valuable and actionable. Pre-test parental choice regarding the disclosure of such information could allow personalized utilization of advanced genomic tests in pregnancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vitalia Libman
- Braun School of Public Health, Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Yechiel Friedlander
- Braun School of Public Health, Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Michal Chalk
- Department of Genetics, Faculty of Medicine, Hadassah Medical Center, Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Hagit Hochner
- Braun School of Public Health, Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Shiri Shkedi-Rafid
- Department of Genetics, Faculty of Medicine, Hadassah Medical Center, Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem, Israel
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2
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Outram SM, Brown JEH, Zamora AN, Sahin-Hodoglugil N, Ackerman SL. Parental Hopes and Understandings of the Value of Prenatal Diagnostic Genomic Sequencing: A Qualitative Analysis. Front Genet 2022; 13:883225. [PMID: 35923691 PMCID: PMC9339950 DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2022.883225] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2022] [Accepted: 06/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective: To provide qualitative empirical data on parental expectations of diagnostic prenatal genomic sequencing and the value of the results to families. Methods: We interviewed 15 families—mothers and/or fathers—who had had prenatal genomic sequencing about their expectations and their respective evaluations of the benefits of genomic sequencing. Results: Families’ hopes for genetic sequencing clustered around three themes: hoping to identify the cause of the fetal anomaly in a terminated pregnancy; hopes for guidance as to the likely outcome of current pregnancy; and hopes for information to support future family planning. In addition, hopes were discussed in terms of the potential for results to be beneficial in acquiring greater knowledge, while at the same time recognizing that new knowledge may raise more questions. Assessment of the value of sequencing largely mirrored these expectations when positive results seen. Negative results can also be seen as valuable in ruling out a genetic cause and in providing certainty that families had done everything that they could to know about the cause of fetal demise. Conclusion: It would appear that with guidance from genetic counsellors, families were largely able to navigate the many uncertainties of prenatal genomic sequencing and thus see themselves as benefitting from sequencing. However, support structures are essential to guide them through their expectations and interpretations of results to minimize possible harms. Engaging in the process of genomic sequencing was seen as beneficial in of itself to families who would otherwise be left without any options to seek diagnostic answers.
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3
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Buchanan J, Hill M, Vass CM, Hammond J, Riedijk S, Klapwijk JE, Harding E, Lou S, Vogel I, Hui L, Ingvoldstad-Malmgren C, Soller MJ, Ormond KE, Choolani M, Zheng Q, Chitty LS, Lewis C. Factor's that impact on women's decision-making around prenatal genomic tests: An international discrete choice survey. Prenat Diagn 2022; 42:934-946. [PMID: 35476801 PMCID: PMC9325352 DOI: 10.1002/pd.6159] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2022] [Revised: 04/19/2022] [Accepted: 04/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE We conducted a survey-based discrete-choice experiment (DCE) to understand the test features that drive women's preferences for prenatal genomic testing, and explore variation across countries. METHODS Five test attributes were identified as being important for decision-making through a literature review, qualitative interviews and quantitative scoring exercise. Twelve scenarios were constructed in which respondents choose between two invasive tests or no test. Women from eight countries who delivered a baby in the previous 24 months completed a DCE presenting these scenarios. Choices were modeled using conditional logit regression analysis. RESULTS Surveys from 1239 women (Australia: n = 178; China: n = 179; Denmark: n = 88; Netherlands: n = 177; Singapore: n = 90; Sweden: n = 178; UK: n = 174; USA: n = 175) were analyzed. The key attribute affecting preferences was a test with the highest diagnostic yield (p < 0.01). Women preferred tests with short turnaround times (p < 0.01), and tests reporting variants of uncertain significance (VUS; p < 0.01) and secondary findings (SFs; p < 0.01). Several country-specific differences were identified, including time to get a result, who explains the result, and the return of VUS and SFs. CONCLUSION Most women want maximum information from prenatal genomic tests, but our findings highlight country-based differences. Global consensus on how to return uncertain results is not necessarily realistic or desirable.
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Affiliation(s)
- James Buchanan
- Nuffield Department of Population Health, Health Economics Research Centre, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK.,National Institute for Health Research Oxford Biomedical Research Centre, Oxford, UK
| | - Melissa Hill
- North Thames Genomic Laboratory Hub, Great Ormond Street Hospital, London, UK.,Genetic and Genomic Medicine, UCL Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, London, UK
| | - Caroline M Vass
- Manchester Centre for Health Economics, The University of Manchester, Manchester, UK.,RTI Health Solutions, Manchester, UK
| | - Jennifer Hammond
- North Thames Genomic Laboratory Hub, Great Ormond Street Hospital, London, UK.,Genetic and Genomic Medicine, UCL Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, London, UK
| | - Sam Riedijk
- Department of Clinical Genetics, Erasmus MC, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | | | - Eleanor Harding
- BSc Paediatrics and Child Health, The UCL Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, London, UK
| | - Stina Lou
- Center for Fetal Diagnostics, Department of Clinical Medicine, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark.,DEFACTUM - Public Health & Health Services Research, Central Denmark Region, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Ida Vogel
- Center for Fetal Diagnostics, Department of Clinical Medicine, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark.,Department of Clinical Genetics, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Lisa Hui
- Reproductive Epidemiology Group, Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Parkville, Victoria, Australia.,Department of Perinatal Medicine, Mercy Hospital for Women, Heidelberg, Victoria, Australia.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Northern Health, Epping, Victoria, Australia
| | - Charlotta Ingvoldstad-Malmgren
- Center for Research and Bioethics, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden.,Center for Fetal Medicine, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden.,Department of Clinical Genetics, Karolinska Hospital and Department of Molecular Medicine and Surgery, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Maria Johansson Soller
- Department of Clinical Genetics, Karolinska Hospital and Department of Molecular Medicine and Surgery, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Kelly E Ormond
- Department of Genetics and Stanford Center for Biomedical Ethics, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, California, USA.,Department of Health Sciences and Technology, Health Ethics and Policy Lab, ETH Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Mahesh Choolani
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynaecology, National University Hospital, Singapore, Singapore.,Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Qian Zheng
- North Thames Genomic Laboratory Hub, Great Ormond Street Hospital, London, UK
| | - Lyn S Chitty
- North Thames Genomic Laboratory Hub, Great Ormond Street Hospital, London, UK.,Genetic and Genomic Medicine, UCL Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, London, UK
| | - Celine Lewis
- North Thames Genomic Laboratory Hub, Great Ormond Street Hospital, London, UK.,Population, Policy and Practice, UCL Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, London, UK
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4
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Mastromoro G, Guadagnolo D, Khaleghi Hashemian N, Marchionni E, Traversa A, Pizzuti A. Molecular Approaches in Fetal Malformations, Dynamic Anomalies and Soft Markers: Diagnostic Rates and Challenges-Systematic Review of the Literature and Meta-Analysis. Diagnostics (Basel) 2022; 12:575. [PMID: 35328129 PMCID: PMC8947110 DOI: 10.3390/diagnostics12030575] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2022] [Revised: 02/11/2022] [Accepted: 02/21/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Fetal malformations occur in 2-3% of pregnancies. They require invasive procedures for cytogenetics and molecular testing. "Structural anomalies" include non-transient anatomic alterations. "Soft markers" are often transient minor ultrasound findings. Anomalies not fitting these definitions are categorized as "dynamic". This meta-analysis aims to evaluate the diagnostic yield and the rates of variants of uncertain significance (VUSs) in fetuses undergoing molecular testing (chromosomal microarray (CMA), exome sequencing (ES), genome sequencing (WGS)) due to ultrasound findings. The CMA diagnostic yield was 2.15% in single soft markers (vs. 0.79% baseline risk), 3.44% in multiple soft markers, 3.66% in single structural anomalies and 8.57% in multiple structural anomalies. Rates for specific subcategories vary significantly. ES showed a diagnostic rate of 19.47%, reaching 27.47% in multiple structural anomalies. WGS data did not allow meta-analysis. In fetal structural anomalies, CMA is a first-tier test, but should be integrated with karyotype and parental segregations. In this class of fetuses, ES presents a very high incremental yield, with a significant VUSs burden, so we encourage its use in selected cases. Soft markers present heterogeneous CMA results from each other, some of them with risks comparable to structural anomalies, and would benefit from molecular analysis. The diagnostic rate of multiple soft markers poses a solid indication to CMA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gioia Mastromoro
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Policlinico Umberto I Hospital, Sapienza University of Rome, 00161 Rome, Italy; (D.G.); (N.K.H.); (E.M.); (A.T.); (A.P.)
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5
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Levin Fridman A, Raz A, Timmermans S, Shkedi-Rafid S. Views of Israeli healthcare professionals regarding communication of genetic variants of uncertain significance to patients. J Genet Couns 2022; 31:912-921. [PMID: 35122362 PMCID: PMC9541910 DOI: 10.1002/jgc4.1560] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/09/2021] [Revised: 01/17/2022] [Accepted: 01/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
While genomic medicine is becoming an important part of patient care with an ever‐increasing diagnostic yield, communicating variants of uncertain clinical significance (VUSs) remains a major challenge. We draw on qualitative analysis of semi‐structured interviews conducted in 2020 with 20 Israeli healthcare professionals and stakeholders involved in communicating the results of genome‐wide sequencing to patients. Respondents described four main strategies of communicating VUSs to patients: preparing the patient pre‐test for uncertainty; adapting the level of detail to the patient's needs; upgrading versus downgrading the VUS; and following up on the possible reclassification of VUSs. These strategies were expressed differently by physicians and genetic counselors, varying according to their specialty and perception of the patient's situation. We discuss the strategic management and communication of uncertain genomic test results with patients in the context of meeting patients' expectations and working toward genetic causality through genomic narration and designation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alma Levin Fridman
- Department of Sociology and Anthropology, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Be'er Sheva, Israel
| | - Aviad Raz
- Department of Sociology and Anthropology, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Be'er Sheva, Israel
| | | | - Shiri Shkedi-Rafid
- Department of Genetics, Hadassah Medical Organization and Faculty of Medicine, Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem, Israel
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6
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Macarov M, Meiner V, Chalk M, Hochner H, Shkedi-Rafid S. Clinicians' attitudes towards parental choice in the era of advanced genomic tests in pregnancy. Prenat Diagn 2021; 41:1066-1073. [PMID: 34259341 DOI: 10.1002/pd.6010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2021] [Revised: 05/25/2021] [Accepted: 06/19/2021] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Israel is one of the first countries to incorporate chromosomal microarray analysis into routine prenatal care. We explored attitudes of Israeli healthcare professionals (HCPs) towards the disclosure of challenging findings: variants of uncertain clinical significance (VUS), susceptibility loci (SL) for neurodevelopmental disorders and variants associated with adult-onset (AO) conditions. Particularly, we sought their views on providing parental choice regarding the disclosure of these findings. METHODS Twenty-nine in-depth interviews were conducted with genetic counselors (n = 19), medical geneticists (n = 4), medical geneticists that are trained in and practice fetal medicine (n = 3), and fetal medicine experts (n = 3). RESULTS Most participants (n = 24) supported parental choice regarding uncertain genetic information. Engaging parents in disclosure decisions allows avoidance from potentially anxiety-provoking information, practicing parental autonomy, and better preparation in cases where uncertain findings are identified. HCPs believed that given appropriate preparation, parents can make informed decisions. Four participants believed that disclosure should be based on professional judgment and one supported full-disclosure. Unlike VUS or SL, all interviewees agreed that in cases of medically actionable AO conditions, the benefit of disclosure outweighs the damage. CONCLUSION HCPs attitudes are largely in-line with the Israeli practice of involving parents in disclosure decisions regarding uncertain information. This may mitigate disclosure dilemmas and allow personalized disclosure based on parents' views.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michal Macarov
- Department of Genetics, Hadassah Medical Center and Faculty of Medicine, Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Vardiella Meiner
- Department of Genetics, Hadassah Medical Center and Faculty of Medicine, Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Michal Chalk
- Department of Genetics, Hadassah Medical Center and Faculty of Medicine, Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Hagit Hochner
- Braun School of Public Health and Community Medicine, Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Shiri Shkedi-Rafid
- Department of Genetics, Hadassah Medical Center and Faculty of Medicine, Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem, Israel
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7
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Lou S, Jensen AH, Vogel I. How are uncertain prenatal genetic results perceived and managed two years after they were received? A qualitative interview study. J Genet Couns 2021; 30:1191-1202. [PMID: 33830585 DOI: 10.1002/jgc4.1402] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2020] [Revised: 11/18/2020] [Accepted: 02/06/2021] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
Chromosomal microarray has considerably improved our ability to identify or dismiss genetic conditions in the unborn child. However, this detailed analysis also reveals copy number variants (CNVs) of unknown or uncertain significance, in which the specific child's prognosis can be difficult to predict. Little is known about the longer-term impacts of receiving an uncertain prenatal CNV result. Our qualitative study explored how such a result was perceived and managed in everyday life, 2 years after it was received. From an original sample of 16 couples, nine women participated in a semi-structured follow-up phone interview. Transcripts were analyzed using thematic analysis. The results show that these women did not perceive the CNV result to be a part of their everyday lives. They managed the CNV result by focusing on the child's positive development, by not sharing the CNV information in wider social networks, and by emphasizing parental values such as taking life as it comes, welcoming human variation, and accepting that dealing with a child's struggles is an inherent part of parenthood. Overall, the women expressed a positive attitude toward prenatal genetic information about serious disorders but considered 'their' CNV to be close to normal; several women suggested that such findings should not be reported. However, they also recognized the difficulties in making such decisions, given variable penetrance and that couples' definitions of 'serious' could vary significantly. The diagnostic process during pregnancy was remembered as being highly stressful, and many expressed a need for more control in a future pregnancy. Our study provides insight into how mothers reconfigure CNV results to fit their values and everyday lives. When delivering uncertain CNV results in a prenatal setting, genetics healthcare providers should present and discuss long-term coping strategies with expecting parents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stina Lou
- Center for Fetal Diagnostics, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark.,DEFACTUM-Public Health & Health Services Research, Central Denmark Region, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Amalie Hahn Jensen
- DEFACTUM-Public Health & Health Services Research, Central Denmark Region, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Ida Vogel
- Center for Fetal Diagnostics, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark.,Department of Clinical Medicine, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark.,Department of Clinical Genetics, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
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8
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Daum H, Stern S, Shkedi-Rafid S. Is it time for prenatal chromosomal-microarray analysis to all women? A review of the diagnostic yield in structurally normal fetuses. Curr Opin Obstet Gynecol 2021; 33:143-147. [PMID: 33620892 DOI: 10.1097/gco.0000000000000690] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Chromosomal-microarray analysis (CMA) is the first-tier test in pregnancies with structural malformations. Accumulating data show that pathogenic copy number variants (CNVs) can also be identified in structurally normal fetuses. We set out to summarize the published data on the diagnostic yield of CMA in structurally normal fetuses. RECENT FINDINGS Six studies summarize a total of 29,612 prenatal CMAs performed in structurally normal fetuses. The incidence of highly penetrant pathogenic/likely pathogenic CNVs is 0.4-2.5%. Variability was demonstrated in the timing of CMA testing and type of CNVs classified as pathogenic. The incidence of variants of uncertain significance is 0.4-5.4%. The prevalence of susceptibility loci is 0.3-0.7% when specified, and the incidence of CNVs associated with late onset disease is 0.1%. SUMMARY With a frequency of abnormal CNVs of 1:40 to 1:250 in structurally normal fetuses, it is recommended that all pregnant women be informed of the possibility to have CMA performed, even in the absence of malformations. Information should also be provided about uncertain and secondary findings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hagit Daum
- Department of Genetics, Hadassah-Hebrew University Medical Center
- Faculty of Medicine, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem
| | - Shira Stern
- Obstetrics and Gynecology, Hadassah-Hebrew University Medical Center, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Shiri Shkedi-Rafid
- Department of Genetics, Hadassah-Hebrew University Medical Center
- Faculty of Medicine, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem
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9
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Lewis C, Hammond J, Klapwijk JE, Harding E, Lou S, Vogel I, Szepe EJ, Hui L, Ingvoldstad-Malmgren C, Soller MJ, Ormond KE, Choolani M, Hill M, Riedijk S. Dealing with uncertain results from chromosomal microarray and exome sequencing in the prenatal setting: An international cross-sectional study with healthcare professionals. Prenat Diagn 2021; 41:720-732. [PMID: 33724493 PMCID: PMC8519283 DOI: 10.1002/pd.5932] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2020] [Revised: 02/26/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Objectives To conduct qualitative interviews with healthcare providers working in different countries to understand their experiences of dealing with uncertain results from prenatal chromosome microarray analysis (CMA) and exome sequencing (ES). Methods Semi‐structured interviews with 31 healthcare providers who report or return prenatal CMA and/or ES results (clinicians, genetic counsellors and clinical scientists) in six countries with differing healthcare systems; Australia (4), Denmark (5), Netherlands (6), Singapore (4), Sweden (6) and United Kingdom (6). The topic guide explored the main sources of uncertainty and their management. Results There was variation in reporting practices both between and across countries for variants of uncertain significance, however, there was broad agreement on reporting practices for incidental findings. There was also variation in who decides what results are reported (clinical scientists or clinicians). Technical limitations and lack of knowledge (to classify variants and of prenatal phenotypes) were significant challenges, as were turnaround times and lack of guidelines. Conclusion Health professionals around the globe are dealing with similar sources of uncertainty, but managing them in different ways, Continued dialogue with international colleagues on ways of managing uncertain results is important to compare and contrast the benefits and limitations of the different approaches.
What's already known about this topic?
Chromosome microarray analysis and exome sequencing have increased diagnostic yield over karyotyping but have increased the incidence of uncertain results.
What does this study add?
Our findings highlight variation in reporting practices both between and across countries for variants of uncertain significance, although there is broad agreement on reporting practices for incidental findings. International guidelines may help to standardise how we define and categorise variants, however, global uniformity on the management of uncertain results may not be a realistic or desirable goal.
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Affiliation(s)
- Celine Lewis
- Population, Policy and Practice, UCL Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, London, UK.,North Thames Genomic Laboratory Hub, Great Ormond Street Hospital, London, UK
| | - Jennifer Hammond
- North Thames Genomic Laboratory Hub, Great Ormond Street Hospital, London, UK.,Genetic and Genomic Medicine, UCL Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, London, UK
| | | | - Eleanor Harding
- BSc Paediatrics and Child Health, The UCL Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, London, UK
| | - Stina Lou
- Center for Fetal Diagnostics, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Ida Vogel
- Center for Fetal Diagnostics, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Emma J Szepe
- Reproductive Epidemiology, Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Royal Children's Hospital, Parkville, Victoria, Australia.,Department of Paediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry and Health Sciences, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Lisa Hui
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia.,Department of Perinatal Medicine, Mercy Hospital for Women, Heidelberg, Victoria, Australia.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Northern Health, Epping, Victoria, Australia
| | - Charlotta Ingvoldstad-Malmgren
- Center for Fetal Medicine, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden.,Department of Clinical Genetics, Karolinska Hospital and Department of Molecular Medicine and Surgery, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Maria J Soller
- Department of Clinical Genetics, Karolinska Hospital and Department of Molecular Medicine and Surgery, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Kelly E Ormond
- Department of Genetics and Stanford Center for Biomedical Ethics, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, California, USA
| | - Mahesh Choolani
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynaecology, National University Hospital, Singapore.,Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore
| | - Melissa Hill
- North Thames Genomic Laboratory Hub, Great Ormond Street Hospital, London, UK.,Genetic and Genomic Medicine, UCL Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, London, UK
| | - Sam Riedijk
- Department of Clinical Genetics, Erasmus MC, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
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10
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Becher N, Andreasen L, Sandager P, Lou S, Petersen OB, Christensen R, Vogel I. Implementation of exome sequencing in fetal diagnostics-Data and experiences from a tertiary center in Denmark. Acta Obstet Gynecol Scand 2020; 99:783-790. [PMID: 32304219 DOI: 10.1111/aogs.13871] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2019] [Revised: 04/09/2020] [Accepted: 04/14/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Applying whole-exome sequencing (WES) for the diagnosis of diseases in children has shown significant diagnostic strength compared with chromosomal microarray. WES may also have the potential of adding clinically relevant prenatal information in cases where a fetus is found to have structural anomalies. We present results from the first fetal exomes performed in a tertiary center in Denmark. MATERIAL AND METHODS Couples/expectant parents were included in Central Denmark Region from July 2016 to March 2019. Inclusion was not systematic, but where one or more fetal malformations or severe fetal hydrops were detected, and a specific diagnosis had not been obtained by chromosomal microarray. WES was performed in ongoing pregnancies (N = 11), after intrauterine demise (N = 5), or after termination of pregnancy based on ultrasound findings (N = 19). In most cases, a trio format was applied comprising fetal and parental DNA. RESULTS WES was performed in 35 highly selected fetal cases. Pathogenic variants, or variants likely to explain the phenotype, were detected in 9/35 (26%). Variants of uncertain significance were detected in 7/35 (20%) and there was one secondary finding (3%). Out of the 11 ongoing pregnancies, four reached a genetic diagnosis (36%). Detection rate was highest in cases of multisystem anomalies (7/13, 54%). WES was completed in all three trimesters and both autosomal dominant, autosomal recessive and X-linked inheritance were revealed. CONCLUSIONS We present data from 35 cases of exome sequencing applied in a setting of fetal malformations. Importantly, though, we wish to share our personal experiences with implementing WES into a prenatal setting. As a medical society, we must continue to share what we do not understand, what went wrong, what is difficult, and what we do not agree upon. A common understanding and language are warranted. We also advocate that more research is needed concerning the clinical value, as well as costs and patient perspectives, of using WES in pregnancy. We believe that WES will lead to improved prenatal and perinatal care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Naja Becher
- Center for Fetal Diagnostics, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark.,Department of Clinical Genetics, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark.,Department of Biomedicine, Health, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Lotte Andreasen
- Department of Clinical Genetics, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Puk Sandager
- Center for Fetal Diagnostics, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Stina Lou
- Center for Fetal Diagnostics, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark.,DEFACTUM-Public Health & Health Services Research, Central Denmark Region, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Olav Bjørn Petersen
- Center for Fetal Diagnostics, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Rikke Christensen
- Department of Clinical Genetics, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Ida Vogel
- Center for Fetal Diagnostics, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark.,Department of Clinical Genetics, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark.,Department of Clinical Medicine, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
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11
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Lou S, Petersen OB, Lomborg K, Vogel I. How do geneticists and prospective parents interpret and negotiate an uncertain prenatal genetic result? An analysis of clinical interactions. J Genet Couns 2020; 29:1221-1233. [PMID: 32453502 DOI: 10.1002/jgc4.1290] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2019] [Revised: 04/16/2020] [Accepted: 04/23/2020] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
Variants of unknown significance (VUS) and susceptibility loci (SL) are a challenge in prenatal genetic counseling. The aim of this study was to explore how such uncertain genetic results are communicated, negotiated, and made meaningful by genetics healthcare providers and couples in the actual clinical setting where results are delivered. The study was based on an anthropological approach and the material consisted of observations and audio-recordings from 16 purposively sampled genetic counseling sessions where prenatal testing had identified an inherited or de novo VUS or SL result. Field notes and transcripts from audio-recordings were analyzed using thematic analysis. The analysis identified a number of specific interpretations and strategies that clinical geneticists and couples collectively used for dealing with the ambiguity of the result. Thus, the analysis resulted in a total of three themes, each with 3-4 subthemes. The theme 'Setting the scene' describes the three-stage structure of the consultation. The theme 'Dealing with uncertainty' includes 'normalizing strategies' that emphasized the inherent uncertainty in human life in general and 'contextualizing strategies' that placed the result in relation to the surrounding society, where technological developments lead to new and unforeseen challenges. The theme 'Regaining control' includes interpretations that made the knowledge useful by focusing on the value of being prepared for potential, future challenges. Other strategies were to book an extra scan-to reconfirm fetal structural health and to reconnect to the pregnancy. Finally, inquiring about the sex was clearly a way for the couple to signal their investment in the pregnancy. Based on the analysis, we propose that these interpretations served to transform and reduce ambiguity through a process of reconfiguring the biomedical information into knowledge that resonated with the couples' lifeworlds. In this process, both geneticist and couples drew on wider social and moral concerns about uncertainty and responsibility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stina Lou
- Center for Fetal Diagnostics, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark.,DEFACTUM - Public Health & Health Services Research, Central Denmark Region, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Olav Bjørn Petersen
- Center for Fetal Diagnostics, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark.,Fetal Medicine Unit, Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Rigshospitalet Copenhagen University Hospital, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Kirsten Lomborg
- Steno Diabetes Center Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark.,Department of Clinical Medicine, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Ida Vogel
- Center for Fetal Diagnostics, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark.,Department of Clinical Medicine, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark.,Department of Clinical Genetics, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
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12
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Lin YH, Jong YJ, Huang PC, Tsai C. Detection of copy number variants with chromosomal microarray in 10 377 pregnancies at a single laboratory. Acta Obstet Gynecol Scand 2020; 99:775-782. [PMID: 32346853 PMCID: PMC7383919 DOI: 10.1111/aogs.13886] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2019] [Revised: 04/23/2020] [Accepted: 04/25/2020] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Introduction Invasive prenatal testing with chromosomal microarray analysis may be a relevant option for all pregnant women, but there is only moderate‐quality evidence for such an offer. We intended to study the prevalence of copy number variants (CNVs) in prenatal samples using a single SNP‐array platform stratified by indication. Material and methods A cross‐sectional study was performed based on a cohort. From January 2015 to December 2017, a total of 10 377 prenatal samples were received for prenatal single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP)‐array in the laboratory of the Genetics Generation Advancement Corporation. Indications for chromosomal microarray analysis studies included the confirmation of an abnormal karyotype, ultrasound abnormalities, advanced maternal age and parental anxiety. CNVs and region of homozygosity identified by the SNP‐array were analyzed. Results Of 10 377 cases, 689 had ultrasound abnormalities and 9688 were ascertained to have other indications. The overall prevalence of CNVs was 2.1% (n = 223/10 377, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.9‐2.4), but the prevalence was 4.4% (95% CI 3.0‐6.1) for cases referred with abnormal ultrasound findings and 2.0% (95% CI 1.7‐2.3) for other indications. Of the 223 CNVs detected, 42/10 377 were pathogenic (0.4%, 95% CI 0.3‐0.6), 84 were susceptibility CNV (0.8%, 95% CI 0.6‐1.0) and 97 were variants of uncertain significance (0.9%, 95% CI 0.8‐1.1). Using an SNP‐based platform allowed for the detection of paternal uniparental disomy of chromosome 14 in a fetus with ultrasound abnormality. Conclusions With an indication of advanced maternal age but normal ultrasound scans, the prevalence of pathogenic CNVs was 0.4% and that of susceptibility CNV 0.7%. As CNVs are independent of maternal age, the prevalence is likely the same for younger women. Thus, this study provides further evidence that chromosomal microarray analysis should be available for all women who wish to receive diagnostic testing, as this risk is above the cut‐off of 1:300 for Down syndrome, leading to the suggestion of invasive testing. A chromosomal microarray analysis based on SNP‐array platform is preferable, as it can also detect uniparental disomy in addition to copy number variants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yi-Hui Lin
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Wan Fang Hospital, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan.,Genetics Generation Advancement Corporation (GGA Corp.), Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Yiin-Jeng Jong
- Genetics Generation Advancement Corporation (GGA Corp.), Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Pin-Chia Huang
- Genetics Generation Advancement Corporation (GGA Corp.), Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Chris Tsai
- Genetics Generation Advancement Corporation (GGA Corp.), Taipei, Taiwan
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13
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Hui L, Szepe E, Halliday J, Lewis C. Maternity health care professionals' views and experiences of fetal genomic uncertainty: A review. Prenat Diagn 2020; 40:652-660. [PMID: 32096235 DOI: 10.1002/pd.5673] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2019] [Revised: 02/17/2020] [Accepted: 02/18/2020] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Abstract
The field of prenatal screening and diagnosis for fetal anomalies has been marked by a rapid succession of technological advances, including most notably, chromosomal microarray analysis, and next generation sequencing. Despite the diagnostic advantages of these technologies, their incorporation into prenatal testing has created additional challenges of revealing genomic variants of unknown or uncertain significance, and secondary findings. While detailed posttest counseling about uncertain variants is best performed by medical geneticists, many of the screening and diagnostic tests that lead to this information are actually ordered by general maternity health care professionals (HCPs), such as obstetricians, midwives, and family physicians. Maternity HCPs support pregnant women through to the conclusion of their pregnancy and the postpartum period, and thus are close observers of the psychosocial impart of fetal genomic uncertainty on women and their families. While there have been many studies exploring the handling of genomic uncertainty by genetics HCPs, there has been relatively less attention paid to maternity HCPs without speciality training in genetics. This review explores the current literature surrounding nongenetic maternity HCPs' views and experiences of genomic uncertainty and returning uncertain results in the prenatal setting.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lisa Hui
- Reproductive Epidemiology, Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Parkville, Victoria, Australia.,Department of Perinatal Medicine, Mercy Hospital for Women, Heidelberg, Victoria, Australia.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, The Northern Hospital, Epping, Victoria, Australia
| | - Emma Szepe
- Reproductive Epidemiology, Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Parkville, Victoria, Australia.,Melbourne Medical School, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Jane Halliday
- Reproductive Epidemiology, Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Parkville, Victoria, Australia.,Department of Paediatrics, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Celine Lewis
- London North Genomic Laboratory Hub, Great Ormond Street Hospital for Children National Health Service Foundation Trust, London, UK.,Genetics and Genomic Medicine, University College London Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, London, UK
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14
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Abstract
OBJECTIVE To examine the choices of women with both high-risk and low-risk pregnancies who are undergoing prenatal chromosomal microarray analysis in a clinical setting regarding three challenging types of findings: variants of uncertain clinical significance, susceptibility loci for neurodevelopmental disorders, and copy number variants associated with risks for adult-onset conditions. We assessed whether women's choices were associated with indications for testing or with one-on-one pretest genetic counseling. METHODS In this cross-sectional study, medical records of women who underwent invasive prenatal chromosomal microarray analysis testing (N=1,070) at Hadassah Medical Center between June 2017 and February 2018 were examined for testing indications, choices regarding chromosomal microarray analysis findings, and type of pretest genetic counseling. Multivariable analyses to assess associations with testing indication and prior genetic counseling were carried out using logistic regression models. RESULTS In total, 56% of women (n=593) chose to be informed of all three types of findings and 20% (n=218) chose not to be informed of any of the findings beyond high-penetrance childhood-onset pathogenic findings. Variants of uncertain clinical significance as a single choice was the least-selected finding (2.5%, n=27). Low-risk pregnancies (ie, those with normal biochemical screening and fetal ultrasound examinations) were associated with increased interest in receiving genetic information about adult-onset conditions (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] 1.7; 95% CI 1.18-2.33) and susceptibility loci (aOR 1.5; 95% CI 1.08-2.10). CONCLUSION Women with both high-risk and low-risk pregnancies were generally more likely to choose to receive additional genetic information, albeit differences in preferences depend on testing indication and type of pretest counseling.
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15
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Hashiloni-Dolev Y, Nov-Klaiman T, Raz A. Pandora's pregnancy: NIPT, CMA, and genome sequencing-A new era for prenatal genetic testing. Prenat Diagn 2019; 39:859-865. [PMID: 31161621 DOI: 10.1002/pd.5495] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2019] [Revised: 05/06/2019] [Accepted: 05/30/2019] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES We delineate in this article a shift from the "traditional" technologies of karyotyping in PND to the current phase of advanced genetic technologies including noninvasive prenatal testing (NIPT), chromosomal microarray analysis (CMA), and whole-exome sequencing (WES) with their higher detection rate and related abundance of uncertain data. METHODS Conceptual analysis based on seminal works that shaped the socioethical discourse surrounding the experiences of parents as well as professionals with prenatal diagnosis in the last 30 years. RESULTS We consider the implications of this new era of PND for patients and health professionals by drawing on previous studies documenting how probability and uncertainty affect informed consent/choice, health risks communication, customer satisfaction and decision making, and parent-child bonding. CONCLUSIONS We argue that these changes move us beyond the idioms and realities of the tentative pregnancy and moral pioneering, to uncertainty, probability-based counseling, and moral/translational gambling. We conclude by discussing what is needed to maintain hope in the era of Pandora's pregnancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yael Hashiloni-Dolev
- Department of Sociology and Anthropology, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Beersheba, Israel
| | - Tamar Nov-Klaiman
- Department of Sociology and Anthropology, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Beersheba, Israel
| | - Aviad Raz
- Department of Sociology and Anthropology, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Beersheba, Israel
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16
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Cheng SSW, Chan KYK, Leung KKP, Au PKC, Tam WK, Li SKM, Luk HM, Kan ASY, Chung BHY, Lo IFM, Tang MHY. Experience of chromosomal microarray applied in prenatal and postnatal settings in Hong Kong. AMERICAN JOURNAL OF MEDICAL GENETICS PART C-SEMINARS IN MEDICAL GENETICS 2019; 181:196-207. [PMID: 30903683 DOI: 10.1002/ajmg.c.31697] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2018] [Revised: 03/06/2019] [Accepted: 03/07/2019] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Chromosomal microarray (CMA) is recommended as a first tier investigation for patients with developmental delay (DD), intellectual disability (ID), autistic spectrum disorder (ASD), and multiple congenital anomalies (MCA). It is widely used in the prenatal and postnatal settings for detection of chromosomal aberrations. This is a retrospective review of all array comparative genomic hybridization (aCGH/ array CGH) findings ascertained in two major prenatal and postnatal genetic diagnostic centers in Hong Kong from June 2012 to December 2017. Medical records were reviewed for cases with pathogenic and variants of uncertain clinical significance (VUS). Classification of copy number variants (CNVs) was based on current knowledge and experience by August 2018. The aims of this review are to study the diagnostic yield of array CGH application in prenatal and postnatal settings in Hong Kong and to describe the spectrum of abnormalities found. Prenatal indications included abnormal ultrasound findings, positive Down syndrome screening, abnormal noninvasive prenatal test results, advanced maternal age and family history of chromosomal or genetic abnormalities. Postnatal indications included unexplained DD, ID, ASD, and MCA. A total of 1,261 prenatal subjects and 3,096 postnatal patients were reviewed. The prenatal diagnostic yield of pathogenic CNV and VUS (excluding those detectable by karyotype) was 3.5%. The postnatal diagnostic yield of pathogenic CNV was 15.2%. The detection rates for well-defined microdeletion and microduplication syndromes were 4.6% in prenatal and 6.1% (1 in 16 index patients) in postnatal cases, respectively. Chromosomes 15, 16, and 22 accounted for over 21 and 25% of pathogenic CNVs detected in prenatal and postnatal cohorts, respectively. This review provides the first large scale overview of genomic imbalance of mostly Chinese patients in prenatal and postnatal settings.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Kelvin Y K Chan
- Prenatal Diagnostic Laboratory, Tsan Yuk Hospital, Hong Kong
| | | | - Patrick K C Au
- Prenatal Diagnostic Laboratory, Tsan Yuk Hospital, Hong Kong
| | - Wai-Keung Tam
- Prenatal Diagnostic Laboratory, Tsan Yuk Hospital, Hong Kong
| | - Samuel K M Li
- Prenatal Diagnostic Laboratory, Tsan Yuk Hospital, Hong Kong
| | - Ho-Ming Luk
- Department of Health, Clinical Genetic Service, Hong Kong
| | - Anita S Y Kan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Queen Mary Hospital, Hong Kong
| | - Brian H Y Chung
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, HKSAR.,Department of Paediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, HKSAR
| | - Ivan F M Lo
- Department of Health, Clinical Genetic Service, Hong Kong
| | - Mary H Y Tang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, HKSAR
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17
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Levy B, Burnside RD. Are all chromosome microarrays the same? What clinicians need to know. Prenat Diagn 2019; 39:157-164. [PMID: 30673135 DOI: 10.1002/pd.5422] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/02/2019] [Revised: 01/16/2019] [Accepted: 01/18/2019] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Microarray testing is the recommended first-tier diagnostic test for women who undergo invasive prenatal diagnostic procedures. It is well-established that microarray analysis provides information regarding copy number for changes (or copy number variants, CNVs) that may be below the resolution level of standard chromosome analysis, and that such CNVs are not related to maternal age. What may not be appreciated by ordering providers, however, are the technical differences among laboratories with respect to the established laboratory cutoff values for reporting, the definition of targeted versus nontargeted regions, and how these differences may affect the interpretation and reporting of findings which, in turn, affects counseling and possible follow-up testing of family members. Here, we provide a detailed explanation of these technical factors and clarify how they practically impact diagnostic results.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brynn Levy
- Department of Pathology and Cell Biology, Columbia University Medical Center, New York, NY
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18
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Vogel I, Petersen OB, Christensen R, Hyett J, Lou S, Vestergaard EM. Chromosomal microarray as primary diagnostic genomic tool for pregnancies at increased risk within a population-based combined first-trimester screening program. ULTRASOUND IN OBSTETRICS & GYNECOLOGY : THE OFFICIAL JOURNAL OF THE INTERNATIONAL SOCIETY OF ULTRASOUND IN OBSTETRICS AND GYNECOLOGY 2018; 51:480-486. [PMID: 28608362 DOI: 10.1002/uog.17548] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2017] [Revised: 05/24/2017] [Accepted: 06/02/2017] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To evaluate the performance of high-resolution chromosomal microarray (CMA) as the standard diagnostic approach for genomic imbalances in pregnancies with increased risk based on combined first-trimester screening (cFTS). METHODS This was a retrospective study of genomic findings in a cohort of 575 consecutive pregnancies undergoing invasive testing because of a cFTS risk ≥ 1:300 on a publicly funded population-based screening program in the Central and Northern Regions of Denmark, between September 2015 and September 2016. Women with fetal nuchal translucency thickness ≥ 3.5 mm or opting for non-invasive prenatal testing (NIPT) were excluded. Comparative genomic hybridization was performed using a 180-K oligonucleotide array on DNA extracted directly from chorionic villus/amniocentesis samples. Genomic outcomes were reported in relation to cFTS findings. RESULTS Of the 575 pregnancies that underwent invasive testing, CMA detected 22 (3.8% (95% CI, 2.5-5.7%)) cases of trisomies 21, 18 and 13, 14 (2.4% (95% CI, 1.4-4.0%)) cases of other types of aneuploidy and 15 (2.6% (95% CI, 1.5-4.3%)) cases with a pathogenic or probably pathogenic copy number variant (CNV). Of the 15 CNVs, three were > 10 Mb and would probably have been detected by chromosomal analysis, but the other 12 would most probably not have been detected using conventional cytogenetic techniques; therefore, the overall detection rate of CMA (8.9% (95% CI, 6.8-11.5%)) was significantly higher than that estimated for conventional cytogenetic analysis (6.8% (95% CI, 5.0-9.1%)) (P = 0.0049). Reducing the cFTS risk threshold for invasive diagnostic testing to 1 in 100 or 1 in 50 would have led, respectively, to 60% or 100% of the pathogenic CNVs being missed. CONCLUSIONS CMA is a valuable diagnostic technique that can identify an increased number of genomic aberrations in pregnancies at increased risk on cFTS. Limiting diagnostic testing to pregnancies with a risk above 1 in 100 or 1 in 50, as proposed in contingent NIPT/invasive testing models, would lead to a significant proportion of pathogenic CNVs being missed at first-trimester screening. Copyright © 2017 ISUOG. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.
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Affiliation(s)
- I Vogel
- Department of Clinical Genetics, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
- Center for Prenatal Diagnostics, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
- Institute of Biomedicine, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - O B Petersen
- Center for Prenatal Diagnostics, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - R Christensen
- Department of Clinical Genetics, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
- Institute of Biomedicine, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - J Hyett
- Discipline of Obstetrics, Gynaecology and Neonatology, University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - S Lou
- Center for Prenatal Diagnostics, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
- DEFACTUM, Central Denmark Region, Denmark
| | - E M Vestergaard
- Department of Clinical Genetics, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
- Center for Prenatal Diagnostics, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
- Institute of Biomedicine, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
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19
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Pregnant Genetic Counselors in an Era of Advanced Genomic Tests: What Do the Experts Test Prenatally? J Genet Couns 2018; 27:1167-1174. [DOI: 10.1007/s10897-018-0234-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2017] [Accepted: 02/05/2018] [Indexed: 10/17/2022]
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20
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Offering pregnant women different levels of genetic information from prenatal chromosome microarray: a prospective study. Eur J Hum Genet 2018; 26:485-494. [PMID: 29410473 DOI: 10.1038/s41431-017-0084-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/20/2017] [Revised: 11/22/2017] [Accepted: 12/05/2017] [Indexed: 01/30/2023] Open
Abstract
This study aimed to examine the choice pregnant women make about the amount of fetal genetic information they want from chromosome microarray. Women having invasive prenatal testing in the absence of fetal structural abnormality were recruited in Victoria, Australia. A decision aid for women described 'targeted' analysis as reporting only copy number variants implicated in a highly penetrant and well-described phenotype and 'extended' as additionally reporting variants of uncertain or unknown significance. Participant's choice and demographics were collected by survey before chorionic villus sampling or amniocentesis; psychological data were also collected then and again about 10 days after receiving results. High-resolution single-nucleotide polymorphism array analysis was performed, and a clinical review committee assessed variants for reporting before returning results to participants. Sixty-six participants (59.5%) chose extended analysis and 45 (40.5%) targeted. Choosing extended information was associated with (1) indication for prenatal diagnosis: maternal age alone (adjusted odds ratio (adjOR) 9.6, 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.4-66.0, p= 0.02), or 'other' indication (adjOR 7.1, 95% CI: 1.5-33.1, p= 0.01)); (2) >12 months to conceive (adjOR 4.1, 95% CI: 1.0-17.7, p= 0.05); and (3) Asian background (adjOR 4.67, 95% CI: 1.0-21.0, p= 0.04). No adverse psychological impact occurred in either group. We conclude that offering pregnant women different levels of fetal genetic analysis is warranted, alongside decision support.
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21
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Bridging the gap from prenatal karyotyping to whole-genome array comparative genomic hybridization in Hong Kong: survey on knowledge and acceptance of health-care providers and pregnant women. Arch Gynecol Obstet 2017; 296:1109-1116. [DOI: 10.1007/s00404-017-4534-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2017] [Accepted: 09/14/2017] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
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22
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Lou S, Jensen LG, Petersen OB, Vogel I, Hvidman L, Møller A, Nielsen CP. Parental response to severe or lethal prenatal diagnosis: a systematic review of qualitative studies. Prenat Diagn 2017; 37:731-743. [DOI: 10.1002/pd.5093] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2017] [Revised: 05/24/2017] [Accepted: 06/10/2017] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Stina Lou
- DEFACTUM - Public Health & Health Services Research; Central Denmark Region; Aarhus Denmark
- Centre for Prenatal Diagnostics; Aarhus University Hospital; Aarhus Denmark
| | - Lotte Groth Jensen
- DEFACTUM - Public Health & Health Services Research; Central Denmark Region; Aarhus Denmark
| | - Olav Bjørn Petersen
- Centre for Prenatal Diagnostics; Aarhus University Hospital; Aarhus Denmark
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology; Aarhus University Hospital; Aarhus Denmark
| | - Ida Vogel
- Centre for Prenatal Diagnostics; Aarhus University Hospital; Aarhus Denmark
- Department of Clinical Genetics; Aarhus University Hospital; Aarhus Denmark
| | - Lone Hvidman
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology; Aarhus University Hospital; Aarhus Denmark
| | - Anne Møller
- DEFACTUM - Public Health & Health Services Research; Central Denmark Region; Aarhus Denmark
| | - Camilla Palmhøj Nielsen
- DEFACTUM - Public Health & Health Services Research; Central Denmark Region; Aarhus Denmark
- Department of Public Health; Aarhus University; Aarhus Denmark
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23
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Chen SC, Wasserman DT. A Framework for Unrestricted Prenatal Whole-Genome Sequencing: Respecting and Enhancing the Autonomy of Prospective Parents. THE AMERICAN JOURNAL OF BIOETHICS : AJOB 2017; 17:3-18. [PMID: 27996923 DOI: 10.1080/15265161.2016.1251632] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
Noninvasive, prenatal whole genome sequencing (NIPW) may be a technological reality in the near future, making available a vast array of genetic information early in pregnancy at no risk to the fetus or mother. Many worry that the timing, safety, and ease of the test will lead to informational overload and reproductive consumerism. The prevailing response among commentators has been to restrict conditions eligible for testing based on medical severity, which imposes disputed value judgments and devalues those living with eligible conditions. To avoid these difficulties, we propose an unrestricted testing policy, under which prospective parents could obtain information on any variant of known significance after a careful informed consent process that uses an interactive decision aid to deliver a mandatory presentation on the purposes, techniques, and limitations of genomic testing, as well as optional resources for reflection and consultation. This process would encourage thoughtful, informed deliberation by prospective parents before deciding whether or how to use NIPW.
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24
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Werner-Lin A, Walser S, Barg FK, Bernhardt BA. “They Can't Find Anything Wrong with Him, Yet
”: Mothers’ experiences of parenting an infant with a prenatally diagnosed copy number variant (CNV). Am J Med Genet A 2016; 173:444-451. [DOI: 10.1002/ajmg.a.38042] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2016] [Accepted: 10/20/2016] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Allison Werner-Lin
- School of Social Policy and Practice; University of Pennsylvania; Philadelphia Pennsylvania
| | - Sarah Walser
- Translational Medicine and Medical Genetics; Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania; Philadelphia Pennsylvania
| | - Frances K. Barg
- Department of Anthropology and Perelman School of Medicine; University of Pennsylvania; Philadelphia Pennsylvania
| | - Barbara A. Bernhardt
- Translational Medicine and Medical Genetics; Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania; Philadelphia Pennsylvania
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25
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Shkedi-Rafid S, Fenwick A, Dheensa S, Wellesley D, Lucassen AM. What results to disclose, when, and who decides? Healthcare professionals' views on prenatal chromosomal microarray analysis. Prenat Diagn 2016; 36:252-9. [PMID: 26743561 PMCID: PMC5067646 DOI: 10.1002/pd.4772] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2015] [Revised: 12/01/2015] [Accepted: 01/03/2016] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
Objectives This study explored the views of healthcare professionals (HCPs) in the UK about what information should be disclosed, when; and whether women/parents should be given a choice as to what they wish to know. Methods Q‐methodology was used to assess the views of 40 HCPs (genetic HCPs, fetal medicine experts, lab‐scientists). Results Most participants agreed that variants of unknown clinical significance should not be disclosed. Participants were divided between those who considered variants of uncertain clinical significance helpful for parents and clinicians, and those who considered them harmful. Although recognising the potential disadvantages of disclosing risks for adult‐onset conditions, participants thought it would be difficult to withhold such information once identified. Participants largely supported some parental involvement in determining which results should be returned. Most participants believed that information obtained via CMA testing in pregnancy should either be disclosed during pregnancy, or not at all. Conclusion HCPs taking part in the study largely believed that variants that will inform the management of the pregnancy, or are relevant to other family members, should be reported. Recent UK guidelines, published after this research was completed, reflect these opinions. © 2016 The Authors. Prenatal Diagnosis published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. What's already known about this topic?Empirical data on healthcare professionals' (HCPs) and parents' experience with prenatal CMA are scarce. Published data mainly focused on issues around uncertain results obtained via CMA, and on genetic health professionals. The two main difficulties expressed by genetic counsellors associated with testing were interpreting uncertain results, and termination of pregnancies based on uncertain results
What does this study add?It is the first study examining attitudes of a wide range of professionals involved in CMA testing: laboratory professionals, fetal medicine experts, and genetic health professionals. We describe what types of results professionals think should or should not be disclosed and with whom they consider the onus for such decision making should lie. These views are reflected in the recent UK guidelines about CMA testing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shiri Shkedi-Rafid
- Clinical Ethics and Law, Faculty of Medicine, University of Southampton, Southampton, UK
| | - Angela Fenwick
- Clinical Ethics and Law, Faculty of Medicine, University of Southampton, Southampton, UK
| | - Sandi Dheensa
- Clinical Ethics and Law, Faculty of Medicine, University of Southampton, Southampton, UK
| | - Diana Wellesley
- Wessex Clinical Genetics Service, University Hospitals Southampton, Southampton, UK
| | - Anneke M Lucassen
- Clinical Ethics and Law, Faculty of Medicine, University of Southampton, Southampton, UK
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