Health of children conceived after Preimplantation Genetic Diagnosis - a preliminary outcome study

A preliminary study was conducted on health of children conceived after preimplantation genetic screening and diagnosis (PGD). Forty-nine children were assessed with 66 matched naturally conceived (NC) controls. Primary outcome was neurodevelopmental screening, and secondary outcomes were evidence of other health problems and assessment of parent–child relationships. Study and control children were well matched across relevant socio-demographic variables. Growth parameters at mean age 18 months were normal. The mean Griffiths quotient was 102.7 (±13.1) (PGD) and 103.3 (±12.8) (NC), both of which were within the normal range, and did not differ significantly. PGD cases were more likely to be lighter, at <2500 g (12 children, 24.5% versus one child 1.5%, P < 0.0001) and born earlier than controls (38.2 ± 2.6 versus 40.0 ± 1.4 weeks; P
< 0.0001), consistent with other similar studies. PGD families showed no evidence of excess stress in their relationship with their child. The PGD group had significantly higher scores on the warmth–affection sub-scale (P = 0.042), and significantly lower scores on the aggression–hostility and rejection sub-scales (P = 0.030) of the questionnaire. The study showed no major ill effects from PGD on the child health. A larger study is needed to confirm the validity of this conclusion.