PT - JOURNAL ARTICLE AU - G Norbury AU - C J Norbury TI - DNA analysis: what and when to request? AID - 10.1136/adc.2005.089219 DP - 2006 Apr 01 TA - Archives of Disease in Childhood PG - 357--360 VI - 91 IP - 4 4099 - http://adc.bmj.com/content/91/4/357.short 4100 - http://adc.bmj.com/content/91/4/357.full SO - Arch Dis Child2006 Apr 01; 91 AB - Over the last 15 years genetic testing by DNA analysis has expanded enormously both in volume and range due to advances in scientific knowledge and analytical technology. This type of analysis has the potential to provide rapid, cost effective, and accurate diagnostic information but also has its limitations. Some of the changes detected may be of ambiguous consequence and as the knowledge base expands so too does the recognition that other factors can influence the clinical picture. In many cases outcomes may be predicted only on a statistical basis rather than individually. Careful attention should therefore be given to the clinical question that is being addressed before such testing is requested.