Is DNA Testing Accurate?

The DNA test is one of the most accurate identification tests available today. Thanks to the DNA testing, millions of people around the world are able to identify biological parents, ancestry, and many others with a very high level of certainty. Even thought the concept is still relatively new, it has already surpassed other identification tests with ease because of its high level of accuracy.

How does the DNA test work?

When this genetic testing is performed, a small sample of human tissue is analyzed in order to identify a single DNA strand within the human tissue cells. The type of sample doesn't matter. It can be semen, hair, skin, or just about any sample that could possibly be taken from the human body except for bodily waste. The DNA sample is then analyzed in order to locate the genetic code, sequence, or makeup for a particular individual. This code is then compared with that of another person in order to see if there are distinct similarities or not. In crime scene investigations, DNA strands of suspects and samples from crime scenes are compared in order to see if there is any link between the two. This is one of the most widely used tests in criminal investigations.

Is DNA testing accurate?

DNA lab tests are very accurate with little margin of error. The reason that it is so accurate is because of the fact that the strand for a particular individual is unique to that individual and there is no other one like it. There are instances where the testing may be falsified or inaccurate because of contamination that has occurred. In these instances the results typically are not conclusive.

Are there different types of DNA tests?

There are different types of DNA lab tests for different purposes. Some are used for testing biological relationships, others are used for ancestral testing, and some are used strictly for identification purposes.

Where can you have DNA testing done?

Testing can be performed in facilities that have technologically advanced equipment that yields very accurate results. Tests can also be completed in the comfort of your own home. This is made possible with DNA test kits which are typically used for biological linking purposes. Paternity and maternity testing can be done with home kits, but in order to get the most accurate and reliable results, a testing facility should be used if possible.

Would it ever not work?

As with any type of clinical testing, DNA test are also subject to a certain amount of inconsistency and marginal error. Inaccurate testing can be caused by a number of factors, with the most likely candidate being contamination. When DNA samples become contaminated, it sometimes makes it impossible to analyze which would not allow one to achieve successful and accurate results.

Why not use a blood test instead?

Up until recently blood testing was the only real solution that was available for performing tests that would identify biological parents, ancestors, or help in crime scene investigations. Blood tests, however, are subject to a high level of error or inaccuracy because of the fact that blood type is not unique to one particular human being. It is possible for many people to share the same blood type, which does not produce unique results in testing situations. DNA testing will give much more accurate and reliable results.