Translocation (5;8) Karyotype


translocation (5;8) karyotype


This karyotype is an example of a balanced translocation between two chromosomes. In this case a large segment in the q, or long arm of the right chromosome 5 has been exchanged with a small segment from the p, or short arm of the right chromosome 8. The karyotype is written as: 46,XY,t(5;8)(q31.1;p23.1). The key to the karyotype description is as follows:
  • 46:  the total number of chromosomes.

  • XY:  the sex chromosomes (male).

  • t(5;8):  translocation between chromosomes 5 and 8.

  • (q31.1;p23.1):  breakpoints in chromosomes 5 (q31.1), and 8 (p23.1) respectively.


The following ideogram gives a detailed illustration of this translocation. To view an animation of this process click here .


translocation (5;8) ideogram



Return To Previous Page     Back to General Cytogenetics Information