August 13, 2025

503 - Genetics with Dr. David Tegay, DO

36 minutes

Dr. Carole Keim welcomes Dr. David Tegay, DO, to The Baby Manual to talk about genetics, the different types of testing and screening involved in genetics, and how it’s a key part of pediatric medicine. Dr. Tegay was in residency when he encountered a patient who required a consult from a clinical geneticist from Mount Sinai, and the experience fascinated him so much that he moved from his internal medicine residency to a fellowship in genetics. He discusses all aspects of his field with Dr. Keim.

One of the first things Dr. Tegay explains about genetic testing is that most genetic tests are no different than other routine laboratory testing, using a blood sample or even a non-invasive cheek swab or saliva sample to do the testing. It’s the results that are different from other testing. He and Dr. Keim discuss how prenatal genetic testing has developed, what kind of screening might occur during pregnancy, and the types of conditions a geneticist may be looking for. Dr. Tegay sheds light on the truth of birth defects, or congenital anomalies, and how frequently they may occur, including how many are not necessarily significant. The conversation exploring DNA, genetics, and exome sequencing, and the diseases or conditions such testing may reveal, is both enlightening and informative, explaining methodology and treatment for fetal and newborn ailments.

Dr. David Tegay, DO, FACMG, FACOI:

Dr. David Tegay, DO, is a clinical geneticist in Great Neck, NY and has over 25 years of experience in the medical field. He specializes in the areas of Clinical Genetics and Genomics & Internal Medicine. Dr. Tegay graduated from New York Institute of Technology College of Osteopathic Medicine in 1997. He is affiliated with the medical facilities North Shore University Hospital and St. Mary's Hospital Amsterdam.

Resources discussed in this episode: