The Gastroenterology Genetics Clinic at Al Jalila Children’s Specialty Hospital aims at identifying the cause of a patient’s GI condition that suspected to have an underlying genetic basis for the condition. Many genes cause GI issues. For example, 25 to 30% of all neonatal cholestasis cases are due to genetic factors.
The Gastroenterology Genetics Clinic is a fully comprehensive clinic aimed at improving the lives of children that have a neurological condition disorder with a suspected underlying genetic basis. Our paediatric gastroenterologist will provide a complete evaluation of the patient and order genetic testing as appropriate.
A genetic diagnosis can be important to determine prognosis and recurrence risks for future pregnancies. Our team will interpret the results in the context of the patient’s family history to determine the most appropriate treatment plan and if necessary, recommend further genetic testing. A genetic counsellor can discuss all aspects of genetic testing including pre-test counselling for genetic testing, the genetic basis of disease, discuss all possible outcomes including what a positive result may mean for the family and also the benefits and limitations of genetic testing.
Services
We offer consultation and examination for all children with gastroenterology conditions with a suspected genetic basis including:
- Cholestasis
- Alagille syndrome
- GI polyposis syndromes
- Very Early Onset Inflammatory Bowel syndrome
- Conventional Refractory Inflammatory Bowel Syndrome
- Congenital diarrhoea
The Clinic is part of Al Jalila Children’s Genomics Centre which is an innovative unit that was created to offer a wide spectrum of genetic testing and counselling services.
The genomics laboratory within the Genomics Centre is a state-of-the-art genetic testing facility that utilizes the most advanced molecular technologies, including next generation sequencing and whole exome sequencing, to identify the genetic changes in a patient that can cause a genetic condition.
Many gastroenterology conditions are complex cases that require a comprehensive health care team. With numerous specialties within Al Jalila Children’s, our team can make the appropriate referrals within the hospital, creating a coordinated healthcare plan between the different departments. This multi-disciplinary approach to health care ensures that your child will receive the care and support they need.