Chromosomal Microarray Analysis (CMA) Patient

Chromosomal Microarray Analysis (CMA)
Patient Test Information
OPTIMIZED TEST DESIGN
Ambry tests are created to maximize
yield, minimize turn-around-time and
control costs through step-wise testing
when appropriate.
the genome, chromosomes, and dna
The human genome contains a complete set of genetic information for humans. This
information is packaged as DNA sequences into 23 pairs of chromosomes. Each parent
contributes one chromosome to each of the 23 pairs, so that half of the person’s genetic
material is inherited from each parent. Each chromosome contains many genes that are
responsible for producing the proteins that are the building blocks of our bodies.
what is chromosomal microarray analysis?
Genomic imbalances, such as gains or losses of chromosomes or portions of
chromosomes, are a known underlying cause of developmental delay, intellectual
disability, autism spectrum disorders (ASD), dysmorphic features, birth defects or other
congenital anomalies and numerous genetic syndromes.
Chromosomal Microarray Analysis compares a patient’s DNA with reference (control)
DNA to detect gains or losses of genomic material on all 23 chromosome pairs in a
single test.
what are the advantages of microarray testing?
The main advantages include the ability to evaluate all 23 chromosome pairs in a single
test and to detect genetic imbalances at a superior resolution compared to traditional
chromosome analysis (karyotyping).
INSURANCE
Ambry is contracted with the majority of
commercial insurances and Medicare. All
out-of-network patients are treated as innetwork to minimize out-of-pocket costs.
Medicaid coverage varies by state and
pre-verification is recommended.
PATIENT PROTECTION PLAN
If patient out-of-pocket financial
responsibility is potentially greater than
$100, Ambry will contact the patient
for verbal approval prior to initiating the
test. We remain committed to working
with you and your patients to make the
genetic testing process as simple and cost
effective as possible.
STAFF SUPPORT
Board certified medical doctors and
genetic counselors are available to
assist with test selection and result
interpretation.
Microarrays will detect small genomic imbalances that cannot be detected with
traditional chromosome analysis. Ambry’s arrays detect genetic losses of ~100
kb (100,000 base pairs) and genetic gains of ~300kb (300,000 base pairs) while
traditional chromosome analysis cannot detect imbalances of less than ~4Mb
(4,000,000 base pairs).
CUSTOMER SERVICE
Responsive and knowledgeable
representatives are always ready to
answer any questions. Easy-to-read
reports. Free sample submission kits.
Microarray also provides a 5 times greater diagnostic yield over chromosome analysis
(15-20% versus 3%) for testing of individuals with unexplained developmental delay,
intellectual disability, autism spectrum disorder or multiple congenital anomalies.1
ABOUT AMBRY GENETICS
who should undergo testing?
In 14 years of offering genetic testing
services, we’ve performed hundreds of
thousands of genetic tests and identified
more than 45,000 mutations in greater
than 500 different genes.
Chromosomal Microarray Analysis should be considered for all individuals with
syndromic or nonsyndromic conditions that may be caused by genomic imbalance.
Microarrays are widely accepted by the medical community and the test’s superior
resolution led the American College of Medical Genetics (ACMG) to publish guidelines
recommending microarray as a first-tier test in pediatric medicine. Individuals with
previous chromosome analysis studies (karyotype) may also benefit from the superior
resolution of microarray, especially those with:
• Normal chromosome analysis results, as traditional chromosome analysis is limited to
imbalances >4Mb
• Apparently balanced rearrangements (inversions/translocations) that may be
unbalanced when analyzed at a higher resolution
what are the benefits to the individual undergoing testing?
• Disorders diagnosed through microarray may have clinical features that require
medical attention and/or referral to a specialist.
• If the variant(s) identified during testing include genes that are associated with specific
health concerns, the results may help guide treatment.
• It may be important to determine if a genetic imbalance exists, especially when the
individual and/or family members are considering future pregnancies.
• Support groups may exist for individuals with certain genetic imbalances.
what is the difference between the two microarrays ambry offers?
D0714-09-204-MKG-00
15 Argonaut, Aliso Viejo, CA 92656
Toll Free 866 262 7943
Fax 949 900 5501
ambrygen.com
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Chromosomal Microarray Analysis (CMA)
Patient Test Information
specimen requirements
Ambry has designed the 180K Oligo Array to detect aneuploidies, well-characterized
microdeletion or microduplication syndromes and subtelomeric or other unbalanced
chromosomal DNA rearrangements.
The SNP+CGH Array is an enhanced test option that also detects of runs of
homozygosity and uniparental disomy (UPD). UPD is associated with conditions such as
Beckwith-Wiedemann and Prader-Willi/Angelman syndromes. Runs of homozygosity
may indicate a familial relationship between parents of the individual being tested and
raises the possibility of a recessive disorder. Your clinician will determine which test
options is most appropriate.
how do I request testing for myself or my child?
Blood: Blood is preferred (only a single tube
is needed). Ship at room temperature.
Saliva: Properly stored from previous
testing is accepted. Store and ship at room
temperature.
DNA: Properly stored from previous testing
is accepted. Store frozen and ship on ice or
dry ice.
Speak to your clinician (primary care physician, pediatrician, neurologist, geneticist,
or genetic counselor) about the potential benefits of microarray testing. Ambry’s staff
includes board certified medical doctors and genetic counselors that are available to
assist your clinician with test selection and result interpretation. Your clinician can
download a General Test Requisition and Preverification Form or order Chromosomal
Microarray Submission Kits free of charge from Ambry’s website.
how long will it take to obtain results?
Results usually take 10 – 21 days, depending on which test is ordered.
Ambry will provide results to the ordering clinician via fax and mail and also offers an
option to obtain results through our secure online portal, AmbryPort®. Results may be
provided to you by your geneticist or alternatively, you may receive a preliminary result
from the ordering clinician and then, if necessary, be referred to a geneticist.
what will the test report say?
If variants (gains or losses of genomic material) are found, they will be classified into
categories according to their likelihood of causing disease. When possible, a clear
statement of clinical significance will be included in the interpretation section of the
report.
Some variants may be classified as variants of unknown significance (VUS). If certain
conditions are met, Ambry will provide complimentary parental analysis. Generally, if
variants of unknown significance are also present in parental samples, this decreases
the likelihood of the variant causing disease.
what if the test report does not detect any variants?
Ambry offers ExomeNext, a complex genetic test that sequences and analyzes all
~20,000 genes in the human genome in addition to sequencing and screening for
characterized mutations in the mitochondrial genome (mtDNA).
Your clinician/geneticist can advise whether this test may be an appropriate next step.
1. Miller DT, et al. (2010) “Consensus statement: chromosomal microarray is a first-tier clinical diagnostic test for individuals with developmental disabilities or congenital
anomalies.” Am J Hum Genet 86: 749–764
2. Manning M and Hudgins L, et al (2010) “Array-based technology and recommendations for utilization in medical genetics practice for detection of chromosomal
abnormalities” American College of Medical Genetics Practice Guidelines.
D0714-09-204-MKG-00
15 Argonaut, Aliso Viejo, CA 92656
Toll Free 866 262 7943
Fax 949 900 5501
ambrygen.com
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