Genetic tests rolled out to detect rare cancer in unborn babies

A new test which can test unborn babies for a rare eye cancer is set to be rolled out across the NHS.

 

The test, which has been developed by staff at Birmingham Women’s and Children’s NHS Foundation Trust, can detect genetic mutations linked to retinoblastoma.

 

The cancer mostly affects children under the age of five and if left untreated can lead to loss of sight and death.

 

Amanda Pritchard, chief executive of the NHS, said the test had the potential to save hundreds of lives.

 

The test will be offered to pregnant women with a familial history of the disease and is able to predict with up to 100 per cent accuracy whether the baby would develop retinoblastoma and even whether the disease may develop in their siblings.

 

A blood sample is taken and analysed for a mutation in the RB1 gene.  It is believed that around nine in ten children born with the mutation go on to develop the cancer and detecting the mutation before birth means babies can be treated as early as possible.

 

The tests will be rolled out this week across the NHS and are expected to identify the cancer in around 50 babies each year.

 

Chadwick Lawrence’s specialist team of clinical negligence lawyers have years of experience in medical negligence claims, providing support and guidance after life-changing events.  Not only do we represent clients in Yorkshire, but because of our reputation we also represent clients nationally.

 

If you believe that you or a relative may have been injured as a result of clinical/medical negligence, please call for free legal advice from our medical negligence solicitors on the freephone number below.

 

Posted by Karen Motley, Clinical Negligence Department, Chadwick Lawrence LLP (tonymay@chadlaw.co.uk ), medical negligence lawyers and clinical negligence solicitors in Huddersfield, Leeds, Wakefield and Halifax, West Yorkshire.

 

Freephone : 0800 304 7382