Learn more about the switch from PGS and PGD to PGT-A and PGT-M
The field of reproductive medicine is rapidly evolving. Sometimes, this means that we get introduced to new fertility treatments. Other times, we simply have to get to know new names and terminology. This is true with the switch from PGS and PGD to PGT-A and PGT-M. The Fertility Center of Las Vegas (FCLV) wants to help you understand what these different names mean and the significance of this change. Read on as our Las Vegas fertility center team provides the answers.
Why are PGS and PGD now PGT-A and PGT-M?
Don’t be overwhelmed by this alphabet soup of fertility terms. They’re easier to understand than you may think.
PGS is now PGT-A, or preimplantation genetic testing for aneuploidy. Aneuploidy means an embryo has an abnormal number of chromosomes. As a result, PGT-A is just a form of testing that looks to see whether an embryo has the proper number of chromosomes. This is important because having too many or too few chromosomes can lead to a miscarriage or birth defects. An added benefit of PGT-A is that it can also see which embryos are male and female.
PGD is now PGT-M, or preimplantation genetic testing for monogenic disorders. Monogenic disorders are inheritable genetic conditions that affect a single gene. Some examples include cystic fibrosis, sickle cell disease and Tay Sachs. PGT-M can test for known monogenic disorders to determine which embryos are healthy, which ones are affected and which ones are carriers.
As you can see, changing from PGS and PGD to PGT-A and PGT-M is simply a name change. This sometimes happens when doctors and researchers want to update terminology to be more accurate. Right now, our Las Vegas fertility center still uses both terms on our website to help patients who are familiar with the older terms.
How do these forms of preimplantation genetic testing work?
Both PGT-A and PGT-M can occur as part of an in vitro fertilization (IVF) cycle. After fertilization but before embryo transfer, our embryologists take a small and safe biopsy of the cells that will become the placenta (trophectoderm).
For PGT-A, the next step involves assessing the chromosomal makeup to determine the sex of each embryo and whether any abnormalities exist.
For PGT-M, geneticists combine the biopsied cells with a genetic probe to test for a specific genetic illness.
If you’re interested in these forms of testing, your fertility doctor can help you decide which one is right for you. Contact us to schedule an appointment at our Las Vegas fertility center and learn more.
