Ask a geneticist

Understanding the appointment is a useful first step.

This series is based on a conversation with clinical geneticist Nataliya Zhurkova, Candidate of Medical Sciences and a leading researcher in the Department of Rare Diseases and Prevention of Disabling Conditions at the Research Institute of Paediatrics and Child Health, Petrovsky National Research Centre of Surgery.

Where to start

When might a child need a geneticist?

A clinician considers the child’s development, health, previous investigations and family history together.

Which documents should you bring?

Collect existing discharge summaries, specialist reports and test results. New investigations should be discussed with a clinician.

What happens at the appointment?

The geneticist reviews the records and family history, examines the child and discusses whether further investigations are appropriate.

Read the full first-appointment guide → (Russian)

Suggest a question

We welcome general questions for future publications. Please do not send medical records or personal health information. The newsroom does not provide individual consultations.

Suggest a question

This educational series can help you prepare for a conversation with a clinician. It does not replace an individual medical consultation.