What are the different types of genetic tests?
There are two types of genetic tests: • Diagnostic tests are carried out to detect variations on one or numerous genes, in order to confirm or rule out a diagnosis. They are used in clinical health care settings when symptoms of genetic disease are already present. • Predictive tests aim to identify a genetic mutation in an individual who does not yet show any symptoms associated with a genetic mutation. They can be divided into three categories: • Presymptomatic tests are carried out on individuals who do not show any symptoms of a disease to determine whether they have a genetic mutation that will trigger the development of a disease with a genetic origin. Although such tests can indicate whether or not a person will be affected by a genetic disease, at some time in the future, the specific time of disease onset and its severity will remain uncertain.
