Welcome to Penn State Hershey Pediatric Genetics
The Division of Human Genetics, Growth and Development provide comprehensive diagnostic and counseling services to individuals and families at risk for chromosomal or genetic diseases. The clinical genetics program uses a team approach that includes two clinical geneticists, a genetic counselor; developmentalists, and an education specialist. Consultants in neurology, cardiology, orthopedics, dermatology, ophthalmology, psychology, speech and hearing, and other specialties provide a multidisciplinary approach to the evaluation and treatment of individuals and their families. We evaluate children and adults with known or suspected chromosomal/genetic disorders and can provide consultation during pregnancy as well.
Over the past several years, genetic testing has undergone many technological advances. One of the main changes in genetic analysis is the emergence of microarray technology. Microarray is also able to detect small deletions and duplications in DNA that were not previously detectable by looking at a person’s chromosomes under a microscope (what is known as a karyotype, or chromosomal analysis). Therefore, microarray has become the preferred test over standard karyotype analysis, particularly for individuals with developmental delay/intellectual disability, autism spectrum disorders, and multiple congenital anomalies. If your child was seen by our division prior to 2005 and had routine karyotype analysis that did not reveal a diagnosis, we encourage you to re-contact our office to discuss the utility of microarray testing.
On December 22, 2011, Governor Tom Corbett signed the bills into law making licensure of Pennsylvania genetic counselors a reality. Present at the signing were Penn State Hershey Children's Hospital genetic counselors Maria Baker, Ph.D., F.A.C.M.G., M.S., C.G., and Susan Sell, M.S., C.G.C. Read more about the road to passing the licensure legislation.
- The Medical Minute: Genetic testing for breast cancer risk Dr. Rena Kass, director of Penn State Hershey Breast Center, said actress Angelina Jolie’s announcement regarding her double mastectomy is great publicity that will raise awareness about the genetic component of many cancers.More...
- CLIMB program puts families dealing with cancer first Penn State Hershey is hosting another session of CLIMB: Children’s Lives Include Moments of Bravery. Developed by the Children’s Treehouse Foundation, this five-week program sponsored by Penn State Hershey Breast Center addresses the psychosocial aspects of cancer as they relate to the family unit.More...
- Farmers Market in Hershey launches fourth season On Thursday, May 23, the Farmers Market in Hershey will return for its fourth season with plenty of new offerings.More...
- Penn State Hershey experts to present on IBD In an effort to help patients living with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), Crohn’s disease, and ulcerative colitis in central Pennsylvania, Penn State Hershey Inflammatory Bowel Disease Center experts, led by Dr. Walter Koltun, will host a patient symposium.More...
