Genetic services at a center for craniofacial anomalies

Advances in medical genetics and syndrome delineation have demonstrated that many clinical entities are an expression of genetic variability. Assessment of the population at the Center for Craniofacial Anomalies of the University of Illinois Medical Center at Chicago provided a measure of the need for genetic diagnosis and counseling. While it is recognized that this experience is not necessarily representative of that prevailing at other centers, this report provides a basis for interinstitutional comparisons. Public recognition of the need and consequent demand for genetic services is increasing. The inevitable conclusion is that genetic evaluation and counseling are essential services at a center for craniofacial anomalies.