Explore genetics

Once the aberrant gene has been identified, a direct test for just that gene can be made available to the patient's family. This method of testing is called cascade testing. If the relative being tested does not have any problems, the cascade test is referred to as a predictive test . Your family members are more likely to also have a genetic condition if you have one. Communicating your diagnosis with your family members enables them to get the additional information and get tested for the illness. Better health may result from early detection and treatment of genetic conditions. Testing begins with family members who are most likely to share the same genetic alteration . Depending on who has the genetic alteration and who does not, genetic testing "cascades" through the family from that point on. For instance, relatives on your mother's side would be examined if genetic testing revealed that your mother carries the same genetic variation as you do. It wouldn'