St. Marc Medical and Diagnosis Center is pleased to announce the availability of a comprehensive Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) Genetic Testing Panel powered by Next Generation Sequencing (NGS). This advanced testing option helps identify genetic variations associated with autism-like symptoms, offering families and clinicians deeper insight into underlying causes and guiding more personalized patient care. 

While no single test can diagnose Autism Spectrum Disorder, genetic analysis plays a crucial role in evaluating symptoms, ruling out related conditions, and shaping informed treatment strategies. The ASD NGS Panel is recommended only for symptomatic individuals, ensuring testing is both clinically relevant and medically appropriate. 

What the Autism Genetic Panel Can Detect 

Blood-based genetic testing assists in identifying mutations, deletions, or duplications that may contribute to developmental or behavioral symptoms. Key components include: 

• Fragile X Syndrome (FXS): 
  A blood test that detects FXS, a genetic condition that may cause intellectual disability and autism-like features. 

• Chromosomal Microarray Analysis (CMA): 
  Evaluates chromosomes for larger deletions or duplications of genetic material that may be associated with ASD. 

• Exome Sequencing: 
  Analyzes the protein-coding regions of the genome to identify harmful variations or defective proteins. 
  Example: Conditions such as Muscular Dystrophy (LAMA2) may present with symptoms that resemble autism, and exome sequencing helps distinguish between these conditions. 

Why Genetic Testing Matters 

Genetic evaluation provides valuable information that supports families, clinicians, and future care planning. 

• Identifying Underlying Causes: 
  Helps determine whether a specific genetic condition is contributing to a child’s symptoms. 

• Personalized Treatment and Care Pathways: 
  Understanding the genetic background allows healthcare providers to tailor therapies and interventions more effectively. 

• Guiding Future Family Planning:
  Results may offer insight into recurrence risks during future pregnancies. 

Expert Support and Consultation 

For more information about the test procedure, please contact our laboratory team at +961 79 414 877. 

For result interpretation and detailed genetic consultation, Dr. Shafic Kaidbey, Genomics Expert (United Kingdom) and AUB-MC graduate, is available for support. 
Mobile: +44 7507 250905 

St. Marc Medical and Diagnosis Center remains committed to providing advanced diagnostic solutions that empower families with clarity, confidence, and compassionate care.