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DNA Testing Accuracy



 Submitted by Medical Health Test Team on August 3, 2010
DNA Testing Accuracy

A DNA test would be carried out for various reasons – to test for paternity, to solve a crime or even to check for genetic diseases. Each individual has a unique DNA structure. No two people share the same DNA – except identical twins. DNA testing is by and large up to 99.99% accurate for most of the tests. This is possible due to modern technology and rules for DNA analysis. Most DNA tests are carried out at least two times, independently of each other. This ensures that there is no wrong data used in the first test or that no incorrect marker analysis in the first test. Such a procedure also helps the credibility of the test. If, by any chance, there is a discrepancy between the two tests, then fresh samples could be collected and the entire process carried out again.

It is important to note that inaccuracy in DNA testing could occur due to human error. Information may be incorrectly entered or samples may be mixed up. However, these occurrences are rare. If there is ever any doubt about the DNA test results, the test could be performed again, provided the party concerned agrees to this.

A forensic DNA test is probably the most highly accurate. The process of a DNA test is quite simple. Samples are taken from both the crime scene and the suspect. The samples could be semen, vaginal fluid, hair, blood or skin tissue. Although the DNA test takes time to process, the results are likely to be the most accurate piece of evidence that can be used in court. DNA testing is the most accurate form of scientific evidence available.

For a paternity (DNA) test, the results are usually 99% accurate. The accuracy of this kind of DNA test depends on the number of points that are tested on the DNA samples of both the father and the child. Greater accuracy could be obtained if more points are measured. A good laboratory usually tests for about 16 points (loci). Remember that in a paternity test, there is always the likelihood that the DNA profile of the alleged father matches the DNA profile of the child by mere chance. There is always a 1 in 100,000 chance of this happening. Therefore, no paternity test can be 100% accurate.

Overall, DNA tests are accurate as they cannot be tampered with by taking drugs or other substances.

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