Microarray Options for Clinical Diagnosis

Microarray Options for Clinical Diagnosis

Chromosomal Microarray Analysis (CMA) is now widely accepted as the first-line genetic test for many prenatal and postnatal conditions. It plays a critical role in identifying chromosomal abnormalities, microdeletions, duplications, and other copy number variations (CNVs) that cannot be detected by conventional techniques like karyotyping or FISH.

However, with multiple microarray chips available in the market, patients and clinicians are often unsure which option is best for clinical diagnosis. This guide provides a comparison of different microarray options, their strengths, and their ideal applications.

Types of Microarray Options

The comparison chart below outlines the microarray chips from Affymetrix (now part of Thermo Fisher Scientific) and custom/targeted arrays from other vendors.

Key Considerations When Choosing a Microarray

1. Resolution Matters

• High-resolution arrays provide more detailed data, allowing for the detection of smaller genetic abnormalities.

• Lower-resolution arrays simplify bioinformatics and reduce analysis complexity but may miss clinically significant variations.

👉 Takeaway: If patient affordability permits, always prefer higher-resolution arrays for more accurate and comprehensive results.

2. Clinical Interpretation is Critical

• More data does not always equal better outcomes—the expertise of the lab matters.

• A lab with a robust internal database, advanced bioinformatics pipeline, and certified clinical geneticists can extract more value from high-resolution data.

• Clinical interpretation ensures results are actionable and relevant, rather than just raw data.

3. Patient Counseling & Decision-Making

This comparison of microarray options helps:

• Clinicians counsel patients more effectively on the diagnostic yield of different chips.

• Patients make informed decisions balancing cost, resolution, and diagnostic value.

LABASSURE Advantage in Microarray Testing

At LABASSURE, we provide:

• Access to validated microarray platforms (including Affymetrix/Thermo Fisher options).

• High-resolution CMA testing for maximum diagnostic yield.

• Expert clinical interpretation by certified geneticists.

• Support for prenatal, pediatric, and postnatal genetic evaluations.

Key Takeaway

• High-resolution microarrays offer the best chance for accurate diagnosis.

• Lower-resolution options may reduce costs but come with limitations.

• The quality of clinical interpretation is just as important as the technology itself.

By understanding the different microarray options, clinicians and patients can make better diagnostic choices, ensuring the best possible care and outcomes.

📧 For more details about Microarray Testing Options in India, contact us at info@labassure.com

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