Testing types WAS Re: Cindy - to ease the confusion

[Guest guest]

In a message dated 2/9/02 6:29:54 PM, rdick1@... writes:

<< With this in mind, why should

anyone " not know " if they have CMT or not? >>

I'm not Gretchen, but I'll throw in my two cents worth anyway.

IF a person has one of the types that can be diagnosed using the DNA tests,

that's easy.

Many of the types can NOT be found that way. Only one of the many type 2s for

example, are included in the tests.

CMT Type 1-A , Type 1-B, CMTX (sex linked CMT), and HNPP can be tested for.

(The test for 1-B has only been available for 2-3 years) There is also a new

test for one of the mutations known in Type 2, but it is known that there are

other mutations it will NOT detect.

http://www.neuro.wustl.edu/neuromuscular/time/hmsn.html shows the currently

known types. You will notice that Type 1 has a marked reduction in NCV's

while Type 2 has only a slight slowing (possibly none at all)..Also note that

many of the listed types are very rare and/or limited to those from certain

ethnic backgrounds.

Hope this helps clear it up.

Kat

Seattle USA