| How are chromosome studies performed?
Chromosome studies are usually performed on dividing
cells. When the cells divide, the chromosomes become
visible and can be viewed with a microscope. To perform a chromosome
analysis, patient cells are cultured in the laboratory.
The dividing cells are harvested and placed on microscope slides.
The chromosomes in the dividing cells are stained and analyzed
at the microscope by a cytogenetic technologist and Board Certified
Clinical Cytogeneticist. A computer aided system expedites the
preparation of karotypes (Chromosomes arranged in pairs by size,
shape, and staining pattern).
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