Medical genetics: chromosomal microarray: practice question

A Anatomy question in the style of the NEET PG paper. Answer it first, then read why the right option is right and why each of the others is wrong.

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Anatomy · Medical genetics: chromosomal microarray

Sample item

Which abnormality would a chromosomal microarray fail to detect?

Original practice item, not a recalled exam question. Nothing here is recorded.

The answer and the reasoning

C. Balanced reciprocal translocation

A chromosomal microarray measures copy-number gains and losses, so it detects microdeletions and duplications that are too small for a karyotype. A balanced rearrangement changes no copy number, so it is invisible to array methods and needs a karyotype.

Option by option

  • A. Terminal deletion of 5p

    A terminal deletion is a copy-number loss and is detected.

  • B. Duplication at 17p12

    A duplication is a copy-number gain and is detected.

  • C. Balanced reciprocal translocation (correct)

    Correct. A balanced rearrangement involves no net gain or loss of DNA.

  • D. Microdeletion at 22q11.2

    A microdeletion changes copy number and is detected.

Source note: Original NextPrep sample item — pending expert review. This item is original practice material awaiting independent expert review, so confirm important facts in a standard textbook.

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Questions about this Anatomy question

What is the answer to this Anatomy question?

The best answer is C, Balanced reciprocal translocation. A chromosomal microarray measures copy-number gains and losses, so it detects microdeletions and duplications that are too small for a karyotype.

Why is "Terminal deletion of 5p" not the answer?

A terminal deletion is a copy-number loss and is detected.

Why is "Duplication at 17p12" not the answer?

A duplication is a copy-number gain and is detected.

Why is "Microdeletion at 22q11.2" not the answer?

A microdeletion changes copy number and is detected.

What concept does this question test?

It tests Medical genetics: chromosomal microarray in Anatomy. A balanced rearrangement changes no copy number, so it is invisible to array methods and needs a karyotype.

How hard is this question?

We tag it as a multi-step question: it asks you to combine more than one idea. The tag is our own editorial judgement, not an official difficulty rating, so read the reason for every option, not only the answer.

How should I study Medical genetics: chromosomal microarray?

Learn every nerve by its route, its muscles and what a lesion looks like at the bedside. That one habit answers a large share of questions. Then use the flashcards and the other Anatomy questions on this site to test what stuck.

Is this a real NEET PG question?

No. It is an original practice item (editorial status: sample, version 1). NextPrep does not publish recalled or leaked questions, and independent faculty review of this item has not been completed yet, so confirm important facts in a standard textbook.