Wales Infants' and childreN's Genome Service (WINGS): providing rapid genetic diagnoses for unwell children

Abstract

Introduction: This study reviews the first 3 years of delivery of the first National Health Service (NHS)-commissioned trio rapid whole genome sequencing (rWGS) service for acutely unwell infants and children in Wales.

Methods: Demographic and phenotypic data were prospectively collected as patients and their families were enrolled in the Wales Infants' and childreN's Genome Service (WINGS). These data were reviewed alongside trio rWGS results.

Results: From April 2020 to March 2023, 82 families underwent WINGS, with a diagnostic yield of 34.1%. The highest diagnostic yields were noted in skeletal dysplasias, neurological or metabolic phenotypes. Mean time to reporting was 9 days.

Conclusion: This study demonstrates that trio rWGS is having a positive impact on the care of acutely unwell infants and children in an NHS setting. In particular, the study shows that rWGS can be applied in an NHS setting, achieving a diagnostic yield comparable with the previously published diagnostic yields achieved in research settings, while also helping to improve patient care and management.

Keywords: genetics; intensive care units, neonatal; intensive care units, paediatric; technology.