Genetic testing doesn't show autism directly or directly diagnose autism.
However genetic testing does help to identify potential genetic factors which can contribute to someone's diagnosis of autism or other related conditions.
Genetic testing cannot pinpoint a single autism gene but it can reveal any variations in genes or chromosomes which may increase a persons risk of developing autism or co occurring conditions such as epilepsy or intellectual disability.
The cost of genetic testing ranges from $100.00 to as much as $2,000.00 depending on the complexity of the genetic testing and the type of genetic testing.
Many insurance plans cover all or part of the expense of genetic testing when it's medically necessary.
Single gene tests are often less expensive than panel tests or whole exome/genome sequencing.
More complex tests such as linkage analysis tests can be more expensive.
Different labs for genetic testing can also vary in prices for the same tests.
Even with insurance, there might still be some copays, deductibles or other out of pocket expenses.
Newborn screening genetic tests often cost between $30.00 to $150.00 per newborn.
Panel tests can cost from $250.00 to over $2,000.00.
Chromosomal Microarray tests can cost from $1,000.00 to $2,500.00 without insurance.
Single gene tests range from $100.00 to $2,000.00.
And direct to consumer tests cost from under $100.00 to over $1,000.00 depending on the scope of analysis.
Fortunately many insurance plans will cover the cost of genetic testing, especially when recommended by a doctor and deemed medically necessary.
However, coverage can vary depending on the insurance provider, the specific type of test, and the individual's circumstances.
The 7 types of genetic tests are forensic genetic tests, pharmagogenomic genetic tests, predictive/presymptomatic genetic tests, newborn screening genetic tests, prenatal genetic tests, carrier genetic tests and diagnostic genetic tests.
These genetic tests can analyze DNA for a variety of purposes, which include for identifying people for legal reasons and confirming if someone has a suspected genetic condition.
Genetic testing has also been instrumental in diagnosing of rare hereditary disorders such as cystic fibrosis, Huntington's disease, and muscular dystrophy.
NGS has also enhanced the accuracy and efficiency of these genetic tests, enabling earlier and more precise diagnoses.
Some of the main types of genetic tests include.
Molecular tests which look for changes in one or more genes.
Chromosomal tests which are used to analyze whole chromosomes or long lengths of DNA to identify large-scale changes.
Gene expression tests which look at which genes are turned on or off (expressed) in different types of cells.
The 2 disorders that are commonly tested for during genetic testing are Down syndrome and trisomy 18 syndrome which are two genetic disorders that are often screened for as part of prenatal genetic testing.
Traditionally the testing is done looking at markers in blood or by invasive testing such as amniocentesis.
Genetic testing results typically take 2-4 weeks to be returned, but this can vary based on the specific test and the laboratory.
Some genetic tests, particularly those used for immediate medical decisions, can return results more quickly, within 5-12 calendar days.
Prenatal genetic tests like NIPT can usually return results within 5-7 business days.
Many insurance plans will cover the cost of genetic testing, especially when recommended by a doctor and deemed medically necessary.
However, coverage can vary depending on the insurance provider, the specific type of test, and the individual's circumstances.