Inheritance patterns describe how a condition is passed down. In autosomal dominant conditions, one changed gene copy from either parent is enough to cause the condition, however some autosomal dominant conditions are random event that is not inherited from either of the parents. In autosomal recessive conditions, both copies must be changed. In X-linked conditions, the gene is on the X chromosome, which often affects males and females differently. Your geneticist will explain which pattern applies to your specific situation.