What is the Karyotype Test?
The karyotype test is a genetic test that analyzes the shape, size, and number of chromosomes. Chromosomes are found inside the nucleus of cells that contain genes, where the genes make up the deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) which passes down from the parents to the offspring. DNA is unique to each individual and is responsible for one’s traits such as eye color and height.
Normally each cell has 23 pairs of chromosomes resulting in a total of 46 chromosomes. The offspring acquire one pair each from their parents.
During genetic diseases, there may be either a higher or lower number of chromosomes, abnormalities in shape or size of the chromosomes, and a karyotype test is often conducted to determine the genetic defects of a developing fetus. Some disorders caused by chromosomal defects include Edwards syndrome, Down syndrome, and Turner syndrome. Karyotype test is also known as genetic testing, chromosome studies, cytogenetic analysis, and chromosome testing.