Frontotemporal dementia

Genetic testing

Genetic testing for dementia is not available widely in clinical settings. Genetic testing for screening purposes is indicated when it could contribute to decisions about pregnancy or be used to evaluate risk in family members of a person with FTD. Testing (for MAPT, GRN, and C9orf72) is generally reserved for patients with a 3-generation pedigree of inheritance.[88]Goldman JS, Farmer JM, Van Deerlin VM, et al. Frontotemporal dementia: genetics and genetic counseling dilemmas. Neurologist. 2004 Sep;10(5):227-34. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/15335440?tool=bestpractice.com It may also be reasonable when the evidence for familial transmission is strong in a shorter or less complete pedigree. The family structure should be established and family members who wish to be better informed should be invited to a clinical review with assurances of confidentiality and consent of the FTD patient’s next of kin. When molecular genetic tests are available and the case appears familial, family members are advised to undergo tests provided that facilities for follow-up psychological support are in place.