Fragile X Repeat Analysis for Developmental Delay

Fragile X syndrome is the most common inherited form of developmental delay. Affecting primarily males, this condition may present with learning disabilities, behavioral problems, autism, or seizures. Other common features include a long face with a prominent jaw, large or protruding ears, a large head, large testicles in post-pubertal males, joint hyperextensibility, and mitral valve prolapse. Fragile X syndrome is caused by expansion of the FMR1 gene CGG triplet repeat. The molecular portion of the panel includes both PCR to assess for size of the CGG triplet repeat and Southern blot (positive cases and prenatal cases only) for the methylation status.

Fragile X prenatal analysis is available for at-risk pregnancies. If Fragile X repeat analysis was not performed in this laboratory, please include a copy of the test result.

Indications for Testing

• Confirmation of clinical diagnosis
• Autistic-like behaviors and other behavioral problems
• Family history of unexplained developmental delay or autism, especially showing a preponderance of affected males within the family
• Carrier testing
• Premature ovarian failure
• Pregnancy known to be at risk for Fragile X syndrome.

OMIM #: 300624

Sample Requirements

• Infants: 2-3 mL whole blood in a purple top EDTA tube
• Children (>2 years) and adults: 3-4 mL whole blood in a purple top EDTA tube
• Amniotic fluid or cultured amniocytes

Contact laboratory genetic counselors or molecular director for specific sample requirements in advance.

Note: Maternal blood sample is also required for Maternal Cell Contamination studies for prenatal samples. Send 3-4 mL in a purple top EDTA tube along with prenatal sample.

Sample Handling

Blood samples stored overnight should be refrigerated or kept cold. Blood samples should never be frozen. Specimens being sent from outside facilities should be packaged with a cold pack according to standard medical safety practices. The specimen should be shipped by overnight priority (scheduled to arrive by Friday morning at the latest).

Shipping Address

Center for Human Genetics Laboratory
10524 Euclid Avenue, Sixth Floor
Cleveland, OH 44106
216-983-1134

For local samples, please call Client Service (216-844-5227) to arrange for sample pick-up.

Turnaround Time

CGG Repeat Analysis: 10 – 14 days
Southern blot: 14 – 21 days

CPT Codes

Fragile X Molecular Analysis: 81243
Southern Blot Analysis: 81244

Please submit a completed Molecular Requisition for each sample.