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Mosaicism - Overview

Alternative Names

Chromosomal mosaicism; Gonadal mosaicism

Definition of Mosaicism:

Mosaicism is a condition in which cells within the same person have a different genetic makeup. This condition can affect any type of cell, including:

Blood cells
Egg and sperm cells (gametes)
Skin cells

Causes, incidence, and risk factors:

Mosaicism is caused by an error in cell division very early in the development of the unborn baby.

Examples of mosaicism include:

Reviewed last on: 2/17/2009
Chad Haldeman-Englert, MD, Division of Human Genetics, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.

References

Hall JG. Single-gene and chromosomal disorders. In: Goldman L, Ausiello D. Cecil Medicine. 23rd ed. Philadelphia, Pa: Saunders Elsevier;2007:chap 39.

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