Chapter 1. The Language of the Pedigree
Published Online: 19 MAR 2002
DOI: 10.1002/0471223913.ch1
Copyright © 1999 by Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Book Title
The Practical Guide to the Genetic Family History
Additional Information
How to Cite
Bennett, R. L. (2002) The Language of the Pedigree, in The Practical Guide to the Genetic Family History, John Wiley & Sons, Inc., New York, USA. doi: 10.1002/0471223913.ch1
Publication History
- Published Online: 19 MAR 2002
- Published Print: 7 APR 1999
ISBN Information
Print ISBN: 9780471251545
Online ISBN: 9780471223917
- Summary
- Chapter
Keywords:
- history;
- benefits;
- cost-effectiveness;
- importance of pedigree;
- applications of pedigree;
- pedigree as diagnostic tool
Summary
This chapter reviews the historical perspective on recording a genetic family history, as well as the as current and future benefits of recording a pedigree in a medical record. Topics include using a pedigree:
As a diagnostic tool
To decide on testing strategies, and for evaluating at-risk family members
To establish the pattern of inheritance, and calculating genetic risks
To distinguish genetic from other risk factors
To help identify the medical screening needs for healthy individuals
As a way to establish client rapport, and facilitate patient decision-making
To explore a patient's understanding about a disease, and to clarify common patient misconceptions about inheritance
Pedigrees will continue to play a critical role in the age of genomic medicine, as the clues from buried ancestors reach out to the present to provide solutions for the future.