Difference between Molecular Genetic Pathology and Clinical Molecular Genetics?

[ravupadh]

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What are the differences between the two specialities? I know that clinical molecular genetics is a primary speciality of the ABMG while molecular genetic pathology is jointly administered by both the ABMG and the ABP. Also, clinical molecular genetics is a primary speciality while molecular genetic pathology is a fellowship that requires previous certification by either the ABMG and ABP.

But that's all I notice in terms of their differences. The reason why I'm asking is because I am interested in pursuing a career in IM/medical genetics with further specialization in either molecular genetic pathology or clinical molecular genetics since I could see patients as well as perform labwork (I don't want to be stuck doing either of the two full-time). From what I can tell both clinical molecular genetics and molecular genetic pathology entails employing molecular biology techniques for diagnosing genetic disorders. What is the difference between the two? Thanks.

 

[GeneMD2B]

My understanding is that at many institutions the training is very similar but Clinical Molecular Genetics typically is almost exclusively focused on germline molecular genetics, where as Molecular Genetic Pathology involves tumor genetics etc. I am not sure if this might be institution dependent however. Another difference is that you don't need to be a physician to do Clinical Molecular Genetics, and it is not an ACGME accredited specialty, though it is accredited by the ABMG.

I hope this helps some.