Additional indications for genetic counseling in women of advanced maternal age

Abstract

Genetic counseling for women with advanced maternal age is well established medical standard of care. However, only one study has yet been done to test the validity of that policy. Records of 283 patients referred for genetic counseling with advanced maternal age as a primary indication were examined. Of these, 57.6% had at least one additional indication. This value did differ significantly from Rubin's data which reported a 43.3% rate (X2 = 13.01, p > 0.001). The additional indications were broken down according to McKusick's system, and a statistical difference between my and Rubin's data was found in the autosomal dominant, autosomal recessive, potential teratogenic exposure and miscellaneous categories. There was no significant statistical difference between my and Rubin's data in the X-linked, chromosomal anomalies and multifactorial groups. These data underscore the need for physicians to refer patients with advanced maternal age for genetic counseling, and provides a scientific basis for doing so.