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ATM: Other Considerations

Learn about other health implications for people with ATM mutations. Stay up to date by signing up for our community newsletter.
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Other Medical Concerns for People with Inherited Mutations

A rare and serious childhood disease called Ataxia-Telangiesctasia (AT) can occur in children who inherit an mutation from both their mother and their father. Children who have AT have neurological problems, immunodeficiency and cancers such as leukemia and

Both parents must have an mutation for a child to have AT. Couples where one partner has a known  mutation may wish to speak with a genetic counselor about testing the other partner prior to having children. There are options using assisted reproduction technology and preimplantation genetic diagnosis for parents to select embryos that are free of inherited  mutations. 

Research shows that people with AT are sensitive to the effects of radiation. This has led to questions about whether x-ray exposure is a risk for people with a single mutation. At this time experts feel that there is not enough evidence to suggest that people with an mutation need to avoid , other screening x-rays, or radiation treatment for cancer as recommended by their doctors.

Last updated September 06, 2024