The importance of a genetic evaluation of prospective ovum donors: a study of family history and genetic carrier testing.

摘要

OBJECTIVE: To determine the percentage of potential ovum donors who have an increased risk for fetal harm. STUDY DESIGN: Couples using an ovum donor to conceive a pregnancy are expecting to select someone who poses a low genetic risk to their offspring. Currently, most genetic carrier screening of these donors is performed at the discretion of the fertility center. This investigation involves a review of family history and genetic carrier test results of oocyte donor candidates. RESULTS: A total of 210 (22.1%) of 950 potential oocyte donors had at least one fetal risk factor based on family history. Of 244 prospective donors who had genetic testing, 15 (6.1%) were found to be carriers of hereditary diseases that could pose an increased risk to a fetus. CONCLUSION: A genetic assessment is a critical step in the evaluation of prospective oocyte donors, because almost one quarter of donors had a family history of a disease that could pose an increased fetal risk. Disclosure of ovum donor carrier status and, when applicable, testing of partners is required before accepting a potential ovum donor in an infertility program.