A importância dos resultados do CMA no aconselhamento genético das famílias com probandos apresentando deficiência intelectual.

Abstract

Intellectual disability is characterized by a significant decrease in both cognitive and adaptive functions, affecting 1-3% of the general population. Worldwide is a major socioeconomic problem, with a highly heterogeneous and variable etiology, which may include environmental factors, disorders Mendelian and chromosomal abnormalities, presented alone or in combination. Single gene and chromosomal disorders are considered the cause of intellectual deficiency in 7-37% of cases, while submicroscopic copy number variation occur in 5-15% of cases, especially when associated with multiple congenital abnormalities, and-or dysmorphisms. Genomic microarrays have been extensively used in the studying the genetic causes of intellectual disability, and the chromosomal microarray analysis is recommended as the first-tier cytogenetic diagnostic test for patients with intellectual disability-global developmental delay, autism spectrum disorders and-or multiple congenital anomalies. Genetic counseling is a process that deals with the occurrence or risk of occurrence of a genetic disorder in a family, helping them to understand the contribution of this heritage, involving education and reproductive aspects. The goals include facilitation of informed autonomous choices, education, which includes information on options (available, risks and limitations of those options), as well as provision of emotional support. Promoting, thus, autonomy and adaptation to the diagnosis, with the central tenet the nondirectiveness, requiring the genetic counselor to maintain a neutral stance, supporting and respecting the patient s personal values and decisions. Families of people diagnosed with genetic disorders need to be aware of the importance of going through the process of genetic counseling, and this should be done continuously and according to the need that the facts indicate, with the primary objective the promotion of health and the quality of life.