Cytogenetics

Cytogenetic laboratories undertake chromosomal analysis on a
variety of samples including whole blood (collected into
lithium heparin), amniotic fluid, chorion villus or placental
samples, cultures of solid tissues and bone marrow aspirates.
Analysis is undertaken to diagnose chromosomal disorders
when a diagnosis is suspected clinically, to identify carriers of
familial chromosomal rearrangements when there is a family
history and to provide information related to therapy and
prognosis in certain neoplastic conditions. Some of the main
indications for performing chromosomal analysis are listed in
the box.