Seeking Answers: Genetic Testing at St George's Hospital
- Jun 15
- 2 min read
Updated: Jun 17
Seeking Answers: Genetic Testing at St George's Hospital
After a consultation at St George's Hospital, London with Patryk Gawrysiak, Dr Kristiana Gordon and Prof Sahar Mansour, I underwent genetic testing to explore the possible underlying cause of my lymphoedema.
The appointment began with a detailed discussion of my medical history and the journey of my lymphoedema, allowing the team to fully understand my journey so far. This was followed by a physical examination of my leg, where they assessed pitting, skin changes, and the overall condition of my lymphoedema. The final step was straightforward, a blood sample taken by the phlebotomy department which was then sent to the laboratory for DNA analysis.
As anticipated by the clinical team, the results came back inconclusive with no identifiable genetic cause linked to my lymphoedema. While this outcome is in some ways disappointing, particularly as I had hoped it might provide clear answers, it also brings a sense of reassurance. The lack of a genetic link means there is no evidence to suggest that I would pass lymphoedema on to my future children which is a significant relief.
I had, perhaps, placed some hope in the testing as a way to better understand why I developed this condition. Not having that clarity is challenging but it does not change the reality of living with lymphoedema or the importance of continuing to manage it effectively.
Moving forward, I will remain committed to advocating for greater awareness and understanding of lymphoedema. I will continue to stay informed about emerging research and advances in treatment, focusing on progress rather than uncertainty. Although the results were not definitive, they signify another step in my journey, confirming resilience and perspective.
