Two of the four, or 50 percent, have inherited the trait. The other 50 percent have not inherited the trait. These four combinations are possible every time a pregnancy occurs between these two individuals. An example of an autosomal dominant condition is myotonic dystrophy. Specific problems in other systems of the body can also occur.
Myotonic dystrophy is known as an extremely variable condition.
Most families know that there is a dominant trait or disorder in their family, because it is passed from parent to child and can be seen in many generations. It is important to remember that with autosomal dominant inheritance, if a person does not have the trait, they cannot pass it on. Click here to view the Online Resources page of this Web. Copyright 2000 Lucile Packard Children's Hospital. All rights reserved.