Molecular testing is utilized in a variety of contexts within gynecology. Some key applications include:
- Cancer Diagnosis and Management: Detecting genetic mutations associated with gynecological cancers, such as BRCA1 and BRCA2 in ovarian and breast cancer. - Infectious Disease Detection: Identifying pathogens through polymerase chain reaction (PCR) for conditions like human papillomavirus (HPV) and bacterial vaginosis. - Prenatal Testing: Screening for chromosomal abnormalities, such as Down syndrome, through non-invasive prenatal testing (NIPT). - Fertility and Reproductive Health: Assessing genetic causes of infertility and recurrent pregnancy loss.