Can tay sachs disease be detected prenatally?

Yes, Tay-Sachs disease can be detected prenatally through genetic testing. This can be done via chorionic villus sampling (CVS) or amniocentesis, which analyze the fetus's DNA for mutations in the HEXA gene responsible for the disease. Additionally, if one or both parents are carriers, carrier screening can help assess the risk of having an affected child. Early detection allows for informed decision-making for prospective parents.