What Is CMA?
What Is Chromosomal Microarray (CMA) Testing?
A Clear Explanation of CMA for Autism, Pediatric and Behavioral Health Providers
Chromosomal Microarray (CMA) is a high-resolution genetic test used to detect small chromosomal changes, extra or missing pieces of DNA, that can influence a child’s development, learning, behavior or neurological function.
It is one of the most widely used first-line genetic tests recommended by clinical guidelines for evaluating developmental delays, autism spectrum concerns, intellectual disability and certain neurological conditions.
This guide explains CMA in practical, easy-to-understand terms for Autism Centers, ABA providers, pediatric clinics and behavioral health organizations that depend on clear, timely diagnostic insights.
What CMA Detects
CMA identifies:
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microdeletions (missing genetic material)
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microduplications (extra copies of genetic material)
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copy number variations (CNVs) that may affect development
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certain genomic imbalances linked to neurodevelopmental conditions
These variations are often too small to be detected by traditional karyotype testing, making CMA far more precise.
Conditions Where CMA Is Commonly Ordered
CMA is frequently used when evaluating:
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suspected autism spectrum disorder
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developmental delay
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intellectual disability
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speech and language delays
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hypotonia
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seizures or neurological symptoms
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behavioral or psychiatric concerns with possible genetic components
It is not a diagnostic test for autism itself but it helps identify underlying genetic contributions relevant to the child’s care.
How CMA Works
While the laboratory techniques occur behind the scenes, the CMA process follows a predictable workflow:
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Sample preparation
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DNA extraction and processing
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Hybridization to a microarray platform
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Scanning and data capture
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Bioinformatic analysis to detect variations
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Result interpretation and reporting
For providers, what matters most is receiving a clear, high-quality, clinically useful report and receiving it on time.
Why CMA Matters in Developmental & Autism Evaluation
CMA identifies:
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microdeletions (missing genetic material)
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microduplications (extra copies of genetic material)
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copy number variations (CNVs) that may affect development
-
certain genomic imbalances linked to neurodevelopmental conditions
These variations are often too small to be detected by traditional karyotype testing, making CMA far more precise.
Why In-House CMA Capability Improves Care
Most centers rely on external labs, which often leads to:
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unpredictable turnaround times
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delays in evaluation
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long waitlists
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frustrated families
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stalled intake or treatment planning
Building an internal CMA workflow room allows providers to:
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reduce delays
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maintain predictable timelines
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strengthen diagnostic pathways
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support families more efficiently
This is why many autism-focused and pediatric centers are shifting toward in-house CMA capability.
Why CMA Knowledge Matters for Your Organization
Understanding CMA helps:
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directors make informed operational decisions
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clinical teams communicate clearly with families
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intake coordinators streamline evaluation timelines
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administrators evaluate costs, benefits, and workflow readiness
CMA knowledge strengthens every part of a center’s diagnostic process.
Learn More About CMA and How Your Center Can Implement It
Explore more resources in our CMA Knowledge Center or contact us to learn how your organization can establish an in-house CMA workflow.
Your center delivers answers.
We help you deliver them faster.