Bob- CMT and DNA tests

[Guest guest]

Bob,

The answer to your question lies in the fact that there are many,

many different genetic variants of CMT. Think of CMT as a collection

of multiple diseases, each disease caused by a different gene defect.

These variations of CMT are classified by " types " . What makes them

all fit under the CMT umbrella is that each genetic defect causes

problems in the function of the peripheral nerve. DNA is complex -

it takes many, many genes to control the healthy development of any

single part of our body, in this case the formation, structure and

function of the peripheral nerve.

I've forgotten the last count, but there are over 30

different " types " of CMT that have been identified. (Someone can

correct me on the number of types...)

Only a handful of those types have had a specific gene identified

that can be DNA-tested. For the rest of the CMT types (and the

majority of CMT patients), there is no DNA test available yet that

can confirm the diagnosis of CMT. That is why genetic research is so

vital in this and many other diseases.

Hope that helps a little.

Ruth in Raleigh