Dictionary

gene testing The testing of a sample of blood (or another fluid or tissue) for evidence of a gene. The aim of gene testing is usually to learn whether a gene for a disease is present or absent.

gene therapy The treatment of disease by replacing, altering, or supplementing a gene that is absent or abnormal and that is responsible for the disease.

general paresis Progressive dementia and generalized paralysis due to chronic inflammation of the covering and substance of the brain (meningoencephalitis). General paresis is a part of late (tertiary) syphilis and is very rare today. It occurs a decade or more after the initial infection.

genetic Having to do with genes and genetic information.

genetic code See code, genetic.

genetic counseling An educational counseling process for individuals and families who have a genetic disease or may be at risk for a disease to facilitate informed decision-making.

genetic counselor A health professional who has a graduate degree or specialized training in the areas of genetics and genetic counseling.

genetic infantile agranulocytosis See severe congenital neutropenia.

genetic screening Testing of a population to identify individuals who are at risk for a genetic disease or for transmitting a gene for a genetic disease.

genetic transport disease An inherited disease resulting from a malfunction in the receptors and/or carrier proteins responsible for the transport of molecules across cell membranes. Several dozen diseases are known to be due to transport defects. An example of a transport disease is cystinuria, the most common defect known in the transport of an amino…

genital Pertaining to the external and/or internal organs of reproduction.

genital herpes An infection by human herpes virus that is transmitted through intimate contact with the moist mucous linings of the genitals. This contact can involve the mouth, the vagina, or the genital skin. Following infection, the virus travels to nerve roots near the spinal cord and settles there permanently. When an infected person has…