Genetic Disorders and Gene Therapy

Pediatrics and Genetics

Fortunately, with no medical problems or birth defects, most children are born healthy. Nevertheless, some children are born with differences in body structure, brain development, or body chemistry that may lead to problems with health, development, school performance, and/or social interaction. Pediatric geneticists were trained to identify the causes and history of these diseases. They may suggest tests and treatments that may help you understand and take care of the condition of your child. Pediatric geneticists can also help families understand whether certain disorders are inherited (from genes) and provide screening to family members who may be at risk of having children with similar problems.

• Birth defects
• Down syndrome
• Fetal alcohol syndrome
• Inborn errors of metabolism
• Familial or hereditary problems
• Short or tall stature