topic Re: Carrier Insight DNA test - Alpha thalassemia? in Wellness

Carrier Insight DNA test - Alpha thalassemia?

ACamp — Mon, 08 Oct 2018 14:19:53 GMT

I recently took a collection of genetic tests with Privy Health (Cancer Insight, Carrier Insight, Pharmacogenomic Insight, and Cardiac Insight), all the tests came back normal except for one, the Carrier Insight genetic screeing. I inherited a mutation that there's a chance I could pass down to future children - called Alpha Thalassemia. Does anyone have this or know someone with this condition. I'm so glad I took this test, I had no idea! I'm in my thirties, and my husband and I want to start a family soon, I want to prepare as best as possible. Thank you!

Re: Carrier Insight DNA test - Alpha thalassemia?

Laura14 — Mon, 08 Oct 2018 14:29:26 GMT

I've not heard of alpha thalassemia but I am a carrier for beta thalassemia or Mediteranean Anemia.

In my case, if I had married someone who was also a carrier, we had the potential to have a child with full blown Mediterranean anemia.

Check with your ob/gyn. I am sure she or he can direct you to a genetic counseling person who can help you know exactly what it means for your potential family. In my case, the husband had to carry to or else it was just a potential carrier for a child like me and it doesn't affect me too much. I'm just always cold.

Good Luck!

Re: Carrier Insight DNA test - Alpha thalassemia?

haddy — Mon, 08 Oct 2018 14:32:39 GMT

My friend's brother has this condition and he just has to be on medication, other then that is completely normal. So I wouldn't stress out too much! I would inquire with Privy Health about pointing you in the direction of a good genetic counselor, and I know you can do additional genetic testing during pregnancy. Good Luck!

Re: Carrier Insight DNA test - Alpha thalassemia?

ACamp — Mon, 08 Oct 2018 14:39:11 GMT

Thank you for your insight! That doesn't sound so scary. I actually do have an appointment set with a genetic counselor, and am making an appointment with ob/gyn - hopefully that will be informational and set my mind as ease.

Thank you so much!!!

Re: Carrier Insight DNA test - Alpha thalassemia?

ACamp — Mon, 08 Oct 2018 14:46:05 GMT

Thanks for your response! This condition doesn't sound too scary, so far. Privy Health was actually really great, they gave me information for a genetic counselor, they also have a Medical Director on staff. I've already made an appointment for the genetic counselor. Fingers crossed it goes well.

Thank you again!