Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about DNA paternity testing
People involved in paternity issues commonly ask the following questions:
Who is Identity Genetics, Inc. (IGI)?
IGI is a paternity testing laboratory located in Brookings, South Dakota. IGI has been proving parentage testing for over 10 years. IGI is committed to providing confidential, reliable, and non-invasive DNA testing. We provide parentage testing for government agencies and private individuals.
Are there national standards for paternity testing laboratories?
Standards are set by the American Association of Blood Banks, Parentage Testing committee (AABB). IGI meets or exceeds these standards and is accredited by the AABB.What is paternity testing?
A paternity test is a genetic test to determine if the tested man could be the biological father of the tested child. The most common test used today is based on DNA -- the genetic material contained in almost all cells of a person's body. The results either exclude the tested man (he is not the father) or give a probability that he is the father.
How is paternity testing done?
A sample (blood or buccal) is collected from each individual. DNA is isolated from these samples in the lab and a DNA profile is generated by analyzing several places in the DNA. DNA is present in two copies in each cell. One copy is inherited from the mother, and the other from the father. The child's profile is compared with the mother's to determine what the child inherited from the mother. The remainder of the child's DNA profile had to come from the biological father. The profile of the tested man is examined to see if he meets the requirements for the biological father.
What does it mean if the tested man is excluded?
It means that he is not the biological father of the child. His profile did not match the profile of the child in at least two places.
Approximately 30% of all men tested in parentage matters are excluded (determined not to be the father), according to national statistics.
What does it mean if the tested man is not excluded?
It means that the tested man could be the biological father of the child. His DNA profile matched the profile of the child. The probability that he is the biological father is expressed as a percentage.
How likely is it that a man will be included by these tests when he is not the biological father?
Enough genetic testing is done that it is grater than 99.9% likely that the tested man will be excluded if he is not the father. However, if the tested man could be closely related to the biological father then additional testing may be necessary. The lab should always be notified if this is a possibility.
Which is better - blood or buccal (cheek cell) samples?
There is no scientific difference between them. Many people prefer buccal samples because they are collected by gently rubbing the inside of a cheek with a soft swab. Blood collection is more invasive.
What if we don't live in the same place?
IGI can arrange to have samples collected from all over the country. There is no need for all parties to have their samples collected at the same time or from the same geographical location.
What if the alleged father is deceased?
Often paternity can be established even if the alleged father is deceased. Blood or tissue samples may be available from the coroner's office; alternatively, grandparents or other relatives can be used in place of the alleged father. Call IGI to discuss your specific situation.
Does illness, drug use, alcohol or certain foods affect the results?
The accuracy of DNA testing usually is not affected by these factors. However, a bone marrow transplant or a recent history of blood transfusions may affect the results obtained from blood samples. On rare occasions, foreign substances in the mouth may affect the efficiency of the sample collection of buccal cells. If the quantity/quality of the sample is too low, the sample must be collected a second time.
For more information about paternity testing and to receive a free, no-obligation price quote, please contact our knowledgeable laboratory and genetic counseling staff.