Discreet DNA Testing

The term Discreet DNA testing means that a test can be carried out in secret of the person being tested. As most of us have watched many crime scene investigation movies that mainly use DNA testing to solve their crimes, we all seem to have a basic understanding about this possibility. There are certain technicalities that need to be observed, as many times what is shown in movies, might not always be possible.

Purpose of discreet DNA testing

Many times, the child involved in a particular paternity test question is of age to understand what an oral swab is and that the parents are actually collecting DNA samples of him. Parents might want to be more tactful and initially obtain the result, through discreet testing, so that they can then decide when and how is the best time to communicate the outcome to the child.

The myth behind testing with hair

For many, the first thing that comes to mind when thinking “discreet testing” is Hair. Many believe that out of a single hair you are able to extract a DNA profile and obtain a paternity test result. While it is true that hair itself contains another form of sequence called the Mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA), this sequence allows a person only to determine a maternal lineage. The part of the hair that interests us the most if the hair follicle. In order to have a better chance at extracting the necessary to carry out a paternity test, you would need to submit between 6 – 8 hairs, each with the root attached that have preferably been freshly plucked.

Which discreet sample is considered the better one?

DNA testing companies accept various discreet samples. Some might guide you as to which is the best to submit, offering you a percentage of success, while others don’t. Out of all discreet DNA samples, the used tissue “Kleenex” has to be the easiest to collect and the best in terms of DNA quantity. All that is needed is a used tissue in which a child has blown his nose, which has been allowed to dry and placed in a paper envelope. Other popular discreet samples that have also offered a high success rate [tense] are nail clippings, ear wax on an ear bud and toothbrushes.

Would one expect discreet testing to be as affordable

Most laboratories today use computerized robotics to complete your test. This eliminates the possibility of human error and also makes DNA testing more affordable. When a discreet sample is submitted it is normally run through a more advanced system. There might be the need for multiple attempts to extract the relevant DNA profile. Even though many companies would charge an additional fee for this type of test, it still remains very affordable.