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Molecular and Human Genetics

Houston, Texas

Department of Molecular and Human Genetics
Department of Molecular and Human Genetics
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Prenatal Genetics Clinic

The BCM Prenatal Genetics Clinic is a joint effort between the Department of Molecular and Human Genetics and the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology. These two departments integrate the delivery of high quality, state-of-the-art prenatal diagnostic services through their laboratories and clinics. Together, they offer a full range of coordinated genetic services for the diagnosis, treatment, counseling, and prevention of birth defects. Our professional staffs are world-renown in genetic and obstetric services.

Prenatal Diagnostic and Genetic Services Include:

  • Genetic counseling and reproductive genetics (M.D.) consultation: Advanced maternal age; abnormal maternal serum screening; abnormal prenatal testing; ultrasound anomalies; exposure to medications, infections, alcohol, drugs, chemicals, or radiation during pregnancy; previous child with a birth defect or genetic condition; patient with genetic condition or carrier of a genetic condition; family history concerns; history of multiple miscarriages
  • High resolution ultrasound study of fetus
  • Prenatal diagnostic tests: Amniocentesis; Chorionic Villus Sampling (CVS); fetal blood sampling
  • Multi-fetal reduction
  • Laboratory studies available: DNA testing; biochemical testing; chromosomal analysis
  • Maternal serum screening: (1) First Trimester Screening (FIRST) - calculates the risk for Down syndrome and Trisomy 18 between 11 weeks 1 day and 13 weeks 6 days gestation based on biochemical analysis, ultrasound of the nuchal translucency, and maternal age; (2) Quad Screen - calculates the risk for Down syndrome, Trisomy 18, and open neural tube defect in the second trimester by measuring MSAFP, hCG, uE3, and Papp-A.
  • Preimplantation genetic diagnosis

Clinic Physicians:

Clinic Manager:

Melissa Strassberg, M.S.
E-mail:
713-798-3299

Prenatal Genetic Counselors:

  • Sandra Darilek, M.S., CGC
  • Veena Mathur, M.S.
  • Jennifer Lemoine, M.S., CGC
  • Blair Stevens, M.S.
  • Melissa Strassberg, M.S., CGC

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