HSL Genetics

HSL’s Genetics division has expertise in the testing, diagnosis and counselling of inherited disorders and of genetic variation that can influence susceptibility to disease or therapeutic response to drugs.

Using molecular genetic and cytogenetic methods, we analyse patients’ DNA for variants and study whole chromosomes to assess for a range of inherited disorders, genetic associations and disease risk.

Our oncogenomics tests use various cytogenetic analysis methods to look for acquired chromosome rearrangements.

Our pharmacogenetics tests identify variations in genes involved in drug metabolism, and can help improve drug safety and efficacy. They can provide vital data when selecting volunteers for trials.

Genetic tests are available for:

• Prenatal diagnosis and rapid trisomy screening
• Carrier screening
• Newborn chromosome analysis
• Confirmation of symptomatic individuals and pre-symptomatic testing
• Genetic variation that influences risk of disease
• Identity studies (paternity, zygosity, tissue typing)
• Fertility studies
• Studies of products of conception

Genetic tests vary in their ability to detect variants or to detect all patients who have, or will develop, a particular disease. Some tests are diagnostic for a condition, others are indicative or are associated with an altered risk for a condition. Where testing will predict the inheritance of a disease in a healthy person, counselling and consent are mandatory. For these tests, please complete the Genetic Request form (including informed consent). Our service provides result interpretation and risk assessment to patients and their family members. Genetic counselling can be arranged by TDL’s Consultant Clinical Geneticist.

To meet the increasing range and complexity of genetic testing we have developed an excellent collaboration with other specialist laboratories. Tests marked with a hash (#) in the test table are sent to these laboratories within our network.

HSL Genetics is a UKAS Accredited Medical Laboratory No. 8059.

Specimen Receipt at the Halo is 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

HSL Genetics results service is available Monday to Friday 08:30 – 17:30.

The Cytogenetics Laboratory is also open for processing of samples on Saturdays from 09.00 – 13.00. The OncoGenomics (Molecular Cytogenetics) Laboratory is open Monday to Saturday 09:00 – 18:00.

If you do not find the test you require in this directory or need more information and advice please telephone the head of department on the contact number shown.