Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA) Copy Number Analysis, Fetal
Also known as: SMA DD FE
Use
Spinal muscular atrophy (SMA) is a lethal genetic disorder primarily affecting children, characterized by muscle atrophy and weakness, respiratory issues, and joint deformities. This prenatal diagnostic test is essential for detecting the presence or absence of the SMN1 gene, which is responsible for the condition. The test identifies the deletion or conversion mutations in the SMN1 gene that result in SMA. Also, the copy number of the SMN2 gene is reported, which is known to influence disease severity due to its production of motor neuron survival protein, albeit less than SMN1. Testing is recommended when both parents are carriers or have a family history of SMA.
Special Instructions
Not provided.
Limitations
The test cannot detect single base substitutions, small indels, regulatory region, and intronic variants. SMN2 copies beyond three are challenging to differentiate reliably. The test cannot ascertain the chromosomal phase of SMN1 or SMN2 copies, necessitating caution in interpreting results. Diagnostic errors due to rare sequence variations can occur, and some pathogenic variants outside the targeted exons may go undetected. Genetic consultation is advised due to these limitations.
Methodology
Other
Biomarkers
SMN1, SMN2
Gene
LOINC Codes
- 59266-7 - Maternal Cell Contam Spec
- 66746-9 - Specimen type
- 75325-1 - Symptom
- 35462-1 - SMN1 gene Mut Anl Bld/T
- 54449-4 - SMN2 gene Mut Anl Bld/T
Result Turnaround Time
9-10 days
Related Documents
For more information, please review the documents below
Specimen
Cultured Cells
Volume
Not provided
Minimum Volume
Not provided
Container
Two T-25 flasks at 80 percent confluence
Collection Instructions
Transfer cultured amniocytes or CVS to T-25 flasks, ensure 80 percent confluence before sending to ARUP.
Storage Instructions
Keep at room temperature, and must arrive within 48 hours due to viability concerns.
Stability Requirements
| Temperature | Period |
|---|---|
| Room Temperature | 48 hours |
| Refrigerated | Unacceptable |
| Frozen | Unacceptable |
Other tests from different labs that may be relevant
