What is the recurrence risk for late-onset Alzheimer's disease with one affected sibling?

Get ready for the American Board of Genetic Counseling exam. Prepare with flashcards and multiple choice questions, each question includes hints and explanations. Ace your exam with confidence!

In assessing the recurrence risk for late-onset Alzheimer's disease when there is one affected sibling, research indicates that the risk is relatively low compared to early-onset forms of the disease. Late-onset Alzheimer's typically has a genetic component associated with the apolipoprotein E (APOE) gene, particularly the APOE ε4 allele, which can increase susceptibility but does not follow a simple Mendelian inheritance pattern.

For a person with one affected sibling, the recurrence risk is about 2%. This figure is derived from studies showing that first-degree relatives of individuals with late-onset Alzheimer's disease have a higher risk than the general population. The complexities of polygenic contributions and environmental factors also play a role in familial aggregation, but the established recurrence risk provides a general guideline for understanding familial patterns.

This is why the answer reflects a nuanced understanding of late-onset Alzheimer's inheritance and risk assessment, emphasizing the importance of genetic counseling in evaluating family history and potential risks for relatives.

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