Preimplantation Genetic Diagnosis (PGD)

Preimplantation Genetic Diagnosis (PGD) Principle of PGD Advantages and disadvantages of PGD Laboratory methods of PGD

 With a fast increase in the quantity of known facts about the human embryonic development under the condition in vitro, the methods of assisted reproduction have undergone a huge extension in recent years. Thus it is no wonder that methods of early detection of chromosomal deviations, or early prenatal diagnostics, are also being developed at the same time. One of the methods of an early prenatal diagnosis, which has been applied in this branch, is the preimplantation genetic diagnosis (further PGD).

PGD makes it possible to reduce the risk of spontaneous abortions by means of a selection and transfer of the embryos, which are not affected by any severe chromosomal aberration or another genetic disturbance, whose consequence is an early resorption of the embryos or a selective abortion. Thus the parents may start the pregnancy with a feeling that their future descendant will not suffer from any severe genetic condition or a defect occurring in the family, which can be examined by the methods of prenatal genetic diagnostics.

 
General indication to PGD:
  • Couples with a carrier of a chromosomal aberration
  • Couples with the occurrence of a hereditary disease related to the chromosome X.
  • Couples with a carrier of the so-called small chromosomal mosaics.
  • Couples with repeated reproduction losses.
  • Couples with repeated failure of the IVF cycle.
  • Couples, where the testicular or epididymal spermatides (obtained with the method MESA or TESE) were utilized for the ovum fecundation.
  • Couples after an undergone chemo-/radiotherapy.
  • Couples with a genetic disease in the family (some monogenous diseases).
  • Couples of a higher age (especially if the woman’s age is over 35 years).