Cytogenetics (Chromosome Analysis)

Cytogenetics is the study of chromosomes, strands of DNA and protein that contain the genetic information of a cell. Changes in chromosomes, or aberrations, can be hereditary or acquired in the form of rearrangements or altered number (ploidy). Cytogenetics allows for the detection of large DNA changes visible by staining condensed chromosomes in a method known as G-banding, producing a karyotype or visualization of an individual’s complete set of chromosomes. Cytogenetics continues to be the method of choice for facilitating diagnosis, prognosis and treatment options for many types of hematopoietic neoplasms and constitutional disorders.