Ethical aspects of pre-implantation genetic diagnosis

Abstract 

Pre-implantation genetic diagnosis (PGD) presents several ethical dilemmas, some akin to those found in prenatal diagnosis, and others more specific to the technique, which requires in-vitro fertilisation and creates embryos in vitro. Here, the status of the embryo is central to the dilemmas concerning its selection, possible destruction or use in research, and the fate of carrier embryos. Furthermore, the general question of eugenic practices is also a main ethical theme, as well as fair access to expensive technology. Finally, specific concerns are raised by PGD/human leukocyte antigen to find a ‘saviour’ sibling, PGD for late onset disorders, social sex selection or the replacement of affected embryos. A framework of moral acceptability is discussed.

Keywords: counselling, embryo, ethics, justice, late onset disorders, PGD, sex selection