What is the array CGH?
The array CGH (Comparative Genomic Hybridization) is the newest and most powerful genomic technique available for genetic diagnosis. The array CGH allows us to analyze, in one unique global experiment, the complete genome of an individual in the search for any possible alterations due to the gain or loss of genetic material. In addition, this detection is quick and reliable, being able to get the complete genome analysis in less than two weeks.

What is the difference between an array CGH and the conventional Karyotype?
The conventional karyotype is the standard cytogenetic technique for the detection of chromosomal alterations (for example Down Syndrome, caused by a trisomy in the 21st chromosome).

The array CGH aims for the same objective. However, the main difference between both techniques in the high resolution of the array CGH. In fact, the resolution of the array CGH is between 100 and 1000 times higher than the conventional karyotype. This allows the detection of alterations that, otherwise, would not be visible in genetic diagnosis.

What differences are there between the array CGH and the FISH technique to detect chromosomal alterations?
For all intents and purposes, the array CGH has a much higher capacity. If a FISH probe is able to study the presence of an alteration, an array CGH studies, at the same time, hundreds (often thousands) of possible genetic alterations that could have a pathological effect on the individual’s health.

Why is the array CGH useful in prenatal diagnosis?
The detection of genetic alterations during pregnancy is one of the most important goals of prenatal diagnosis.

The use of the array CGH in this area allows us to confirm the presence of alterations that are invisible to the karyotype, as well as to clarify complex alterations previously observed through conventional citogenetic methods.

This generates a greater reliability in the diagnosis, which in turn means greater peace of mind for the patient.