Recognizing the Common Patterns of Inheritance in Families

Abstract

It is important to identify those families with single gene disorders where genetic testing, surveillance and treatment are currently available to ensure that the family can access specialist opinion and advice if appropriate. Single gene disorders have the highest risk of recurrence within a family. This article is therefore primarily intended to highlight the patterns of affected people which would suggest that a single gene or inherited chromosome disorder might be responsible for the condition in the family.