Pitfalls in Genetic Diagnostics: Why Phenotyping is Essential

Neuropediatrics. 2021 Aug;52(4):274-283. doi: 10.1055/s-0041-1726306. Epub 2021 Mar 31.

Abstract

New genetic testing technologies have revolutionized medicine within the past years. It is foreseeable that the development will continue with the introduction of new techniques. Nevertheless, despite improved technology, an exact clinical description of the phenotype is still necessary and it is important to critically question findings, both before initiating genetic testing and when interpreting the results. We present four brief case vignettes to point out difficulties associated with correctly interpreting genetic findings.

MeSH terms

  • Genetic Testing*
  • Humans
  • Phenotype