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[Huntington's disease: ethical aspects of presymptomatic testing]
Z Gelman-Kohan1, J Chemke, R Nisani
1Clinical Genetics Unit, Kaplan Hospital, Rehovot.
Harefuah
|February 15, 1993
Summary
Presymptomatic testing for Huntington's disease offers genetic insights but raises significant ethical dilemmas. This review examines the complexities surrounding testing minors, particularly when a parent has the disease.
Area of Science:
- Neurogenetics
- Autosomal dominant disorders
Context:
- Huntington's disease (HD) is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder.
- HD presents in middle age with neurological and psychiatric symptoms.
- There is currently no cure or effective treatment for HD.
Purpose:
- To review the ethical issues and dilemmas of presymptomatic testing for Huntington's disease.
- To analyze the implications of testing minors for HD.
- To address a specific case of a mother requesting testing for her young daughter.
Summary:
- Presymptomatic genetic testing for Huntington's disease has evolved genetic counseling practices.
- The review focuses on the ethical challenges introduced by this technology.
- Key dilemmas involve testing individuals who cannot consent, such as young children.
Impact:
- Informs ethical considerations in genetic counseling for Huntington's disease.
- Highlights the need for guidelines on testing minors for adult-onset genetic conditions.
- Contributes to discussions on reproductive and family genetics.