What does karyotyping determine?

Karyotyping is a laboratory technique that involves the visualization and analysis of an individual's chromosomes. It is primarily used to assess the number and structure of chromosomes present in a cell. The most common application of karyotyping is the detection of abnormal chromosome numbers, which can lead to genetic disorders. For example, in conditions such as Down syndrome, there is an extra copy of chromosome 21, which can be identified through karyotyping.

While karyotyping can indicate chromosomal abnormalities, it does not provide information about specific genetic mutations at the DNA level, nor does it determine blood types or the specific sequences of DNA. It is distinct in its focus on chromosome count and structure, making it a critical tool in diagnosing conditions associated with aneuploidy (abnormal number of chromosomes) and chromosomal rearrangements.