A pedigree is a chart that shows the genetic history of a family over multiple generations. It is constructed by a genetic counselor or scientist based on a family's medical history. Pedigrees use symbols to represent individuals and their relationships and health status. Interpreting a pedigree can determine if a condition is autosomal or X-linked based on if it mainly affects males, and if it is dominant or recessive based on whether both parents need to carry the gene. Pedigrees are an analysis tool used to assess disease risk within a family.