A DNA test is an examination into the genetic predisposition to a certain disease. This test may involve diagnostic examination (has a person a hereditary disease) or predictive examination (will a person have a hereditary disease in the future).

Indication

Indication

A DNA test is performed when there is the desire to have children and in the family there is a congenital and/or hereditary disease. A DNA test is also performed to provide the patient with information on estimating the risks to their own health, such as hereditary types of cancer. For some women, there is the possibility to do a DNA test for congenital disorders, before implantation of an embryo which was created via IVF or during pregnancy.

Working

Working

DNA testing examines whether there is a defect in the genes, causing a person to have a specific disease, to be a carrier of a disease or can pass it onto his or her children. A DNA test can also demonstrate whether a person is another person’s family.

Procedure

Procedure

The DNA test starts with a consultation with a clinical geneticist or a genetic counseler. He or she shall examine the question of the patient and create a pedigree of the family. Also, blood is taken from the patient, which is tested in the laboratory. The result of the examination usually takes several weeks to months.

Facts

Facts