About 10% of people diagnosed with MND have a ‘familial’ form of MND. Familial MND is where there is a genetic connection because of a gene mutation
The remaining 90% of people are said to have ‘sporadic’ MND. Most people with MND have the sporadic form. It is not a genetic form of the condition and it will not be passed on in families.
The genetic form of MND can be passed on in future generations and affect multiple family members over time. People who have this form of MND have inherited a genetic mutation from one of their parents. If a person has an MND-related genetic mutation each of their children has a 50/50 chance of inheriting the MND-related genetic mutation.
Genetic testing
Clinical genetic testing is a personal decision and complex process. The first stage of this process is a genetic counselling session and initial consultation. Part of the counselling process involves advising potential outcomes, costs involved, and ramifications of testing.
If you would like to access genetic testing then you will need a referral from your GP that details that you require genetic testing as you have a family history of MND.
Read more:
- General Genetics Clinics — Centre for Genetics Education
- Familial MND and genetic testing | MND Australia
- MND Patient Decision Support Tool
Source
Familial MND and genetic testing, MND Australia, last updated October 2020
