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ASRM Issues New Report on Preimplantation Genetic Testing

Washington DC – The Practice Committee of the American Society for Reproductive Medicine today issued the new practice committee opinion on the use of preimplantation genetic testing. This testing is done on embryos created via in vitro fertilization (IVF), and involves the removal of one or more cells to test for problems in the genes or chromosomes of the embryo.

Preimplantation genetic screening (PGS) involves testing for chromosomal abnormalities in the embryos of parents with no known genetic abnormality. A careful review of the published studies of this technique led the ASRM Practice Committee to conclude that the available evidence does not support the use of PGS to improve live-birth rates in patients with advanced maternal age, previous implantation failure, recurrent pregnancy loss, or to reduce miscarriage rate in patients with recurrent pregnancy loss related to aneuploidy at this time.

”The use of preimplantation genetic screening for chromosomal problems may one day become an essential component of infertility therapy, but for now, available evidence does not support its effectiveness and common usage” Said Steven J. Ory, MD, President of ASRM.

The committee also examined preimplantation genetic diagnosis (PGD). PGD involves testing the genetic material of embryos to look for specific genetic mutations or chromosomal rearrangements. It is generally used by patients who know they are at risk of transmitting a genetic disease or chromosomal abnormality to their offspring. The committee concludes that for couples at risk of having children with a heritable genetic disease, IVF with PGD represents a major scientific advance.

The American Society for Reproductive Medicine, founded in 1944, is an organization of more than 8,000 physicians, researchers, nurses, technicians, and other professionals dedicated to advancing knowledge and expertise in reproductive biology. Affiliated societies include the Society for Assisted Reproductive Technology, The Society for Male Reproduction and Urology, the Society for Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, and the Society of Reproductive Surgeons.