During an initial consultation, the genetic counselor will ask about your concerns and needs. For example: what is your motivation for testing? Are you worried that you or a loved one may have FTD? Are you planning a pregnancy? Are you trying to understand if FTD in your family has a genetic cause? Do you want to know if you are eligible for research studies and potential treatment trials?

Once the genetic counselor understands your motives, they will collect information about your personal and family history of FTD and related conditions. Talking to family members in advance will help you answer questions about your family’s health history. The counselor will also review any available medical records.

Based on your personal and family history, and a careful review of medical records, the genetic counselor will assess the likelihood of a potential genetic cause for the diagnoses or symptoms in your family.

If you choose to pursue genetic testing, your genetic counselor will outline the benefits and limitations, and identify which test will ensure the most accurate results.

After you receive your results, your genetic counselor will explain what they mean for you and your family and help you plan next steps as needed.