Fertiscan

There are many reasons for being unable to conceive, and some may be genetic. A family history of infertility, early menopause, severely reduced sperm production or egg maturation problems may require genetic investigation. Genetic tests such as FertiScan investigate whether specific genes contain changes associated with infertility. Test selection should be based on clinical examination and previous investigations.

FertiScan female panels investigate primary ovarian insufficiency, ovarian development disorders, oocyte maturation defects and certain genetic conditions involved in early embryo development. Eurofins Genoma's comprehensive female infertility panel examines approximately 70 genes. More targeted panels for specific clinical problems are also available. The test does not explain the cause of every case of diminished ovarian reserve or infertility.

The FertiScan male infertility panel analyses 50 genes associated with sperm production and function. It may be used to investigate certain genetic causes of azoospermia, severely reduced sperm count, abnormalities in sperm motility and morphology, or fertilisation problems. Whether the test is needed is determined in conjunction with semen analysis, hormone tests and a urological assessment.

In some couples, recurrent IVF failures or pregnancy losses may have underlying genetic causes. FertiScan may be considered when certain disorders of egg maturation, fertilisation or early embryo development are suspected. However, not every IVF failure indicates a genetic disorder. Broad gene panels are not routine first-line tests for recurrent miscarriages; it is important to investigate standard causes first.

For the FertiScan test, a blood sample of approximately 3 mL is usually taken from the arm. DNA is extracted from the blood sample, and the relevant genes are analysed using Next-Generation Sequencing (NGS) technology. Results are available in approximately 15–20 working days. Fasting is generally not required for the procedure; the laboratory can provide information on any specific preparation requirements.

No. FertiScan examines the DNA sequences of specific genes; however, it does not assess large chromosomal changes detected by karyotype analysis or Y chromosome AZF microdeletions in a way that replaces these tests. A separate test is also required for the CGG repeat expansion in the FMR1 gene associated with Fragile X. The physician may request these additional investigations based on the clinical findings.

A positive result may indicate that a genetic change potentially associated with infertility has been found in one of the genes examined. The change's association with disease, mode of inheritance and clinical significance are assessed separately. A negative result indicates that no explanatory change was detected within the scope of the test. However, it does not rule out all genetic or non-genetic causes of infertility.

FertiScan is not a treatment that directly increases the chance of pregnancy. In some patients, identifying a genetic cause may help with planning further investigations, genetic counselling or reproductive treatment options. However, there is no guarantee that having the test will improve IVF success. Results need to be assessed in the context of the individual patient and couple.

FertiScan is among the genetic tests offered in Northern Cyprus through Wellcare Laboratories in collaboration with Eurofins Genoma. Information is available from Wellcare centres in Nicosia and Kyrenia. The test price may vary depending on the female or male infertility panel and the range of genes selected. You can contact Wellcare Laboratories for current pricing and information about the appropriate panel.