Preimplantation Genetic Diagnosis/Testing (PGTA) FAQs

Preimplantation Genetic Diagnosis FAQs

What is Preimplantation genetic testing/diagnosis?

Preimplantation genetic testing is used to identify genetic variations in embryos produced by In Vitro Fertilisation. PGT is done prior to the embryo’s transfer to the uterus. PGT aims to drastically lower the likelihood of transplanting an embryo with a certain genetic disorder or chromosomal abnormalities.

How long does a PGT test take?

The embryos are cryopreserved (frozen) and kept in our laboratory while PGT is carried out on the DNA from the extracted cells. You will be informed of the PGT findings as soon as they are available, i.e., usually 1-2 weeks following the biopsy.

Are there various types of PGT?

Yes. PGTs are classified into three types:

Preimplantation genetic testing for Aneuploidy (PGT-A)
Preimplantation genetic testing for Monogenic disorders (PGT-M)
Preimplantation genetic testing for Structural Rearrangements (PGT-SR)

Does the PGT procedure pose any risk to the embryos?

Yes. The embryo has a very slim possibility of being affected during the biopsy procedure, which extracts cells from each embryo for PGT. Additionally, since the embryo must be frozen during PGT, it must go through a thawing process before being transferred.

For PGT, what kind of samples are required?

For PGT, additional DNA samples could be needed in addition to the biopsy cells from the embryo(s). Before the egg extraction, DNA samples from the patient, their spouse, or donor may be needed for some PGT-A and PGT-SR testing.