Preimplantation Genetic Testing for Aneuploidy (PGT-A)

Preimplantation Genetic Testing for Aneuploidy (PGT-A)

PGT-A

Purpose : To identify embryos with chromosomal abnormalities before implantation.
Process : A single cell or a few cells are removed from the embryo, and the DNA is tested for aneuploidy (abnormal number of chromosomes).
Conditions detected : Turner Syndrome, Klinefelter Syndrome, Down Syndrome, Edwards Syndrome, Patau Syndrome, and other trisomies and monosomies.
Benefits : Increases the chances of successful implantation and reduces the risk of miscarriage.

Additional Information

PGT-A does not screen for specific genetic diseases, but it can help identify embryos that are more likely to result in a healthy pregnancy.
PGT-A is often used in conjunction with IVF or ICSI (Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection). The decision to undergo PGT-A is a personal one and should be discussed with a healthcare provider.

PGT – A Workflow

When Should a Biopsy Be Performed?

Embryo biopsies can be conducted on Day 3 (Blastomere) or Day 5 (Trophectoderm) of development. For Preimplantation Genetic Testing for Aneuploidy (PGT-A), a Day 5 biopsy is generally preferred due to several key advantages:

Enhanced Accuracy : By Day 5, there are more cells available, providing a larger DNA sample, which improves the precision of the test.
Mosaicism Detection : This stage allows for the identification of mosaicism in aneuploidies, resulting in more reliable outcomes.
Optimal Timing for Transfer : After the biopsy, embryos can be quickly frozen (vitrified), giving clinicians the flexibility to choose the best conditions for implantation in future cycles.