Karyotype Test
A karyotype test looks at the size, shape, and number of your chromosomes. Chromosomes are parts of your cells that contain your genes. Genes are parts of DNA passed down from your mother and father. They carry information that determines your unique traits, such as height and eye color. People normally have 46 chromosomes, divided into 23 pairs, in each cell. One of each pair of chromosomes comes from your mother, and the other pair comes from your father. If you have more or fewer chromosomes than 46, or if there is anything unusual about the size or shape of your chromosomes, it can mean you have a genetic disease. A karyotype test is often used to help find genetic defects in a developing baby.

How is the examination of chromosomes and karyotype done?
For this test, it is necessary for you to go to the cytogenetic laboratory by appointment. It is necessary that you take no antibiotics for at least 5-7 days before the test. In case of any drug use, inform the health care professional as such drugs may have a negative effect on blood culture. No fasting is necessary for the patient.

The health care professional will take a blood sample from a vein in your arm, using a small needle. After the needle is inserted, a small amount of blood will be collected into a test tube or vial. This usually takes less than five minutes. If the blood culture is not successful, another blood sample will be taken.

Karyotype steps:
Sample collection and tissue culture.
Arresting cells at metaphase.
Swelling, separating and spreading chromosomes using hypotonic solution.
Separating chromosomes onto the slide.
Staining or banding.
Arranging the results a karyotype.
This article has been approved by Dr. Zaree Moradi.