Frequently Asked Questions

Home / FAQs

What kind of tests does Suraksha Genomics offer?

We offer a range of specialized genetic tests including Non-Invasive Prenatal Testing (NIPT), Karyotyping, FISH for Aneuploidy, Chromosomal Microarray (CMA), and QF-PCR for Aneuploidy. These tests help in prenatal screening, diagnosing genetic conditions, and understanding causes of developmental delays or pregnancy loss.

How do I get a test done at Suraksha Genomics?

Most of our genetic tests require a referral from your doctor or a qualified healthcare professional. They can discuss which test is appropriate for you and help arrange sample collection.

Is genetic counseling available?

Yes, Suraksha Genomics strongly believes in the importance of genetic counseling. Our team, or your referring doctor, can help you understand the implications of genetic testing, interpret results, and discuss any further steps.

Why should I choose Suraksha Genomics for my genetic testing?

Suraksha Genomics is committed to:

  • Expertise : Our experienced team of geneticists and technicians ensure the highest quality testing.
  • Advanced Technology : We use state-of-the-art platforms like Cytoscan Optima & 750K for CMA, and leading technologies for NIPT, QF-PCR, FISH, and Karyotyping.
  • Accuracy & Reliability : We adhere to stringent quality control measures to provide dependable results.
  • Rapid Turnaround Times : We strive to deliver results promptly to aid in timely decision-making.
  • Comprehensive Support: We work closely with healthcare providers and offer access to genetic counseling to ensure results are understood and managed appropriately.
What is Chromosomal Microarray (CMA) testing?

CMA is an advanced genetic test that analyzes chromosomes at a very detailed level. It can detect tiny missing (microdeletions) or extra (microduplications) pieces of genetic material, known as copy number variations (CNVs), which are too small to be seen by traditional Karyotyping.

What technology does Suraksha Genomics use for CMA?

We utilize advanced Cytoscan Optima & 750K microarray platforms for high- resolution genetic analysis.

What samples can be used for CMA testing at Suraksha Genomics?

We can perform CMA on:

  • Blood samples
  • Amniotic Fluid (AF)
  • Chorionic Villus Samples (CVS)
  • Products of Conception (POC) (tissue from a miscarriage or stillbirth)
When is CMA recommended?

CMA is recommended as a first-tier test for individuals with:

  • Developmental delays or intellectual disabilities
  • Autism spectrum disorder (ASD)
  • Multiple birth defects
  • Abnormal ultrasound findings during pregnancy
  • Recurrent pregnancy loss or stillbirth (for POC analysis)
What are the advantages of CMA?

CMA provides a much higher resolution genetic map than Karyotyping, significantly increasing the diagnostic yield by detecting smaller genetic imbalances that can cause various health and developmental conditions.

What is QF-PCR for Aneuploidy?

Quantitative Fluorescent Polymerase Chain Reaction (QF-PCR) is a rapid molecular genetic test used to quickly count the number of specific chromosomes. It's highly effective for detecting common aneuploidies.

What conditions does Suraksha Genomics QF-PCR screen for?

Our QF-PCR test screens for aneuploidies involving:

  • Chromosome 13 (Patau syndrome)
  • Chromosome 18 (Edwards syndrome)
  • Chromosome 21 (Down syndrome)
  • X and Y chromosomes (Sex Chromosome Aneuploidies like Turner syndrome, Klinefelter syndrome)
What samples are used for QF-PCR?

QF-PCR can be performed on Amniotic Fluid (AF), Chorionic Villus Samples (CVS), or blood samples.

When is QF-PCR recommended?

QF-PCR is often used when rapid detection of common aneuploidies is critical, such as in prenatal diagnosis following a high-risk screening result, or for newborns with suspected chromosomal disorders. It provides results much faster than Karyotyping.

What is FISH for Aneuploidy?

Fluorescence In Situ Hybridization (FISH) is a rapid genetic test used to quickly detect common numerical chromosomal abnormalities. It uses fluorescent probes that bind to specific chromosomes.

When is FISH testing recommended?

FISH is often used when rapid results are needed for suspected common aneuploidies, especially in prenatal samples (Amniotic Fluid or CVS) or in newborns with features suggestive of these conditions.

What is Karyotyping?

Karyotyping is a genetic test that examines an individual's chromosomes – the structures that hold our DNA. It creates a "picture" of the chromosomes to count them and look for large changes in their size or structure, which can indicate genetic conditions.

What samples are used for Karyotyping at Suraksha Genomics?

We perform Karyotyping on:

  • Blood samples (for children or adults)
  • Amniotic Fluid (AF) (collected via amniocentesis during pregnancy)
  • Chorionic Villus Samples (CVS) (placental tissue collected during early pregnancy)
When is Karyotyping recommended?

Karyotyping may be recommended for individuals with suspected chromosomal syndromes (like Down syndrome), developmental delays, intellectual disabilities, infertility, recurrent pregnancy loss, or when prenatal screening suggests a chromosomal abnormality.

What can Karyotyping detect?

It can detect numerical abnormalities (e.g., an extra or missing chromosome) and large structural rearrangements (e.g., translocations, large deletions or duplications).

What is NIPT?

NIPT is a safe and highly accurate blood screening test for pregnant women. It analyzes small fragments of your baby's DNA (cell-free DNA) that circulate in your bloodstream to assess the likelihood of certain chromosomal conditions.

Who should consider NIPT?

NIPT is recommended and can be offered to all pregnant women, regardless of age or risk level, as early as 10 weeks of pregnancy.

How is NIPT performed?

It involves a simple blood draw from the mother's arm. There is no risk to the baby.

What if my NIPT result is high-risk?

A high-risk NIPT result indicates an increased chance of a chromosomal condition, but it is not a diagnosis. Your doctor or a genetic counselor will discuss the result with you and may recommend confirmatory diagnostic testing like amniocentesis or CVS, followed by tests like Karyotyping or Microarray.