Please note this test is currently being updated (including specimen type) please contact the Cytogenetic Laboratory directly (ext 2050) or NRG for details.
This technique is used for identifying the cause of moderate to severe learning difficulties in children (Ref: Lancet (1999);354:1676-1681). It looks at chromosome rearrangements involving the telomeres, and appears to be helpful in identifying rearrangements in about 7% of children in whom other causes for their problems have been excluded.
Requests for telomere screens in the Northern Region should be made only by a member of the Clinical Genetics Department following an assessment of the child: Ph (09) 307-4949, ext 25870 or 0800 476-123
Requests received from elsewhere will be charged to the referring doctor.