American College of Medical Genetics and Genomics
View all recommendations from this societyReleased July 10, 2015; sources updated September 15, 2016
Don’t order MTHFR genetic testing for the risk assessment of hereditary thrombophilia.
The common MTHFR gene variants, 677C>T and 1298A>G, are prevalent in the general population. Recent meta-analyses have disproven an association between the presence of these variants and venous thromboembolism.
The items on the ACMG list are provided solely for informational purposes and are not intended as a substitute for consultation with a medical professional. In determining the propriety of any specific procedure or test, patients should consult with their individual providers and providers should apply their own professional judgment to the specific clinical circumstances presented by each individual patient.
How The List Was Created
The American College of Medical Genetics and Genomics (ACMG) list relies on input from a number of committees in developing clinical practice guidelines and laboratory technical standards and guidelines. For the Choosing Wisely® campaign, input from the Laboratory Quality Assurance Committee, Professional Practice and Guidelines Committee and Therapeutics Committee was solicited. A list of 18 items was reviewed by the ACMG Board of Directors and the five items currently thought to most likely improve quality and reduce waste related to genetic testing were selected. The recommended list was approved by the ACMG Board of Directors, March 24, 2015.
For the ACMG’s disclosure and conflict of interest policy, please visit www.acmg.net.
Sources
Hickey SE, Curry CJ, Toriello HV. ACMG Practice Guideline: lack of evidence for MTHFR polymorphism testing. Genet Med. 2013 Feb;15(2):153-6.
