Rare & Inherited Disorders

Finding the genetic cause of developmental delay, congenital anomalies and suspected syndromes, and what it means for the family.

Rare & Inherited Disorders

Rare disorders are individually uncommon but collectively affect a large number of children and families. Many have a genetic cause.

Identifying that cause can end a long diagnostic journey, guide management, inform prognosis and clarify the chance of recurrence in the family.

Who This is For

For families looking for a diagnosis, and for the paediatricians and specialists who refer them.

Questions and Indications

  • Global developmental delay or intellectual disability
  • Autism spectrum disorder
  • Multiple congenital anomalies
  • Dysmorphic features suggestive of a syndrome
  • Early-onset or treatment-resistant epilepsy
  • Short stature or suspected skeletal dysplasia
  • Suspected chromosomal disorder, such as Down syndrome or Turner syndrome
  • Family history of a known genetic condition

Relevant Tests

Tests and pages for clinicians and healthcare professionals. Browse our portfolio of tests.

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Chromosomal Microarray (CMA)

Whole-genome detection of deletions and duplications too small to see on a karyotype, plus regions of absence of heterozygosity.

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Fluorescence In Situ Hybridisation (FISH)

Fluorescent DNA probes show whether a chromosome or a specific region is present in the normal number of copies.

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What Is NGS

Karyotyping

Microscopic analysis of the complete chromosome set, and the standard test for balanced rearrangements.

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What Is NGS

Targeted Gene Panels

NGS of selected genes for epilepsy, skeletal dysplasia and neurodevelopmental disorders, with custom panels available.

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What Is NGS

Whole Exome Sequencing (WES)

Sequencing of the protein-coding regions of approximately 20,000 genes, ideally as a trio with both parents.

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Counselling & Support

Tumour testing looks at changes in the cancer to guide treatment. When an inherited cancer risk is suspected, a genetic counsellor can explain what separate germline testing involves and what it may mean for relatives.