Clinical genetic testing Clinical genetic testing refers to the
laboratory analysis of DNA or RNA to aid in the diagnosis of
disease. It is very important to understand that clinical
genetic testing is quite different from other types of
laboratory tests. Genetic testing is unique in that it can
provide definitive diagnosis as well as help predict the
likelihood of developing a particular disease before symptoms
even appear; it can tell if a person is carrying a specific gene
that could be passed on to his or her children; it can inform as
to whether some treatments will work before a patient starts
therapy. These are definite advantages. However, there are also
some qualities of genetic testing that should be carefully
thought out and perhaps discussed with a genetic counsellor or
clinical geneticist before undergoing any test. These aspects
are reviewed in the section titled Pros and cons of genetic
testing. In an era of patient responsibility, it is important
that both health professionals and patients are