Isolated cell translocations: Are they significant?

Abstract

BACKGROUND : Cytogenetics study using cultured T-lymphocytes derived from peripheral blood is the easiest way to study human chromosome complement and it is also an excellent method to study chromosomal abnormalities: either structural or numerical. The structural chromosomal abnormalities include translocations, deletions, duplications, ring chromosomes and isochromosomes. AIMS : Cases presenting with multiple congenital anomalies, mental retardation, pregnancy wastage or abnormalities in sexual function are referred to the Division of Human Genetics to rule out chromosomal anomalies. METHODS AND MATERIALS : A total of 70 cases with multiple congenital anomalies, mental retardation, pregnancy wastage or abnormalities in sexual function were studied. About 72 h cultured peripheral lymphocytes subjected to GTG banding were analyzed to look at the chromosome profile. RESULTS : Out of 70 cases of reciprocal translocation, single cell translocations were seen in ten cases (three females; seven males). Looking at the case profile, it was seen that they were referred for mental retardation, bad obstetric history and hypogonadism. It was seen that seven cases (70%) had t(7;14), two (20%) had complex translocations: t(X;9;8) and t(2;10;11), and one (10%) had t(4;21). CONCLUSIONS : Depending on the phenotype, the patients were informed of their abnormality and the need for a look out for the development of any associated problems.