Genetic Disorders and the Fetus

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Technological advances continue to expand the number of genetic disorders that can be diagnosed in utero. Utilization of this new technology has de­ manded special expertise available in relatively few academic centers. As these new applications have become more widespread so have the realities of the medicolegal implications. Notwithstanding the laboratory challenges, most legal action, at least in the United States, has arisen from the physician's failure to inform a patient about the risks of a genetic disorder or the oppor­ tunities presented by prenatal diagnosis. Hence an extensive thorough reex­ amination of the subject seems appropriate and timely. The steady escalation in the number of prenatal genetic studies now being done in the western world makes it imperative for the physician to have a thorough comprehension of the subject in its entirety. I am, therefore, fortu­ nate in having colleagues who as acknowledged experts have shared their knowledge and experience in order to make this volume a major critical repository of facts and guidance about prenatal genetic diagnosis. The subject matter ranges from a consideration of required genetic counseling through the intricacies of establishing prenatal diagnoses. Special attention is focused on new advances using ultrasound, a-fetoprotein, fetoscopy, and first trimester diagnosis. Both ethical and legal implications are discussed in detail, as is the development of public policy.