The utilization of prenatal microarray: A survey of current genetic counseling practices and barriers.

Durham L1,2, Papanna R3, Stevens B1,3, Noblin S1,3, Rodriguez-Buritica D3,4, Hashmi SS3, Krstic N1,3,5.

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Abstract

OBJECTIVE:

We evaluated what prenatal genetic counselor's (GCs) practices, attitudes, and barriers are in regards to prenatal microarray since the publication of the ACOG and SMFM guidelines for microarray use.

METHODS:

This was a survey based cross-sectional study of English-speaking, board certified or eligible genetic counselors who currently practice prenatal genetic counseling.

RESULTS:

Of 192 respondents, 183 (95%) have incorporated CMA into clinical practice with 64% believing that the benefits of CMA outweigh the harms, and 52% agreeing that CMA should be offered to all women regardless of indication. Those who reported being experts/comfortable in their knowledge of CMA (85%) and familiar with current clinical guidelines (86%) were significantly more likely to offer CMA to patients undergoing invasive testing and patients with fetal anomalies. Patient specific concerns were the largest reported barrier (51%) when GCs do not offer CMA to patients.

CONCLUSION:

Our study demonstrates GCs follow guidelines for CMA use when specific indications are involved, but further guidelines are needed regarding CMA use for other routine indications where utility of CMA is not clearly understood. Based on this, ACOG and SMFM should continue revising their guidelines as more information comes to light regarding utility of prenatal CMA for all indications and organizations like the NSGC should consider publishing guidelines on prenatal CMA that are specialized to the GCs sphere of practice.