Parental Testing Policy for Pediatric and Adult Patients
Signature Genomic Laboratories recommends testing of parental samples in cases in which the patient is found to have an abnormal test result. Analysis of parental samples determines whether an abnormality is familial or de novo, and can provide clarification of interpretation and clinical relevance of the patient’s results.
Parental Testing for Pediatric and Adult Patients Tested by the SignatureChipWG™ and SignatureChipOS™
For pediatric or adult patients tested by the SignatureChipWG™ and SignatureChipOS™, the type of sample required from each parent for comprehensive analysis and interpretation may differ with each case, so please refer to the patient’s report generated by Signature Genomics, or call the laboratory directly. In general, parental testing typically requires two tubes each with 3-5 cc whole blood, one sodium heparin (NaHep) green-top tube, and one EDTA purple-top tube from each parent. Exceptions may apply.
Results of parental studies have a turnaround time of 5-10 days depending upon the type of analysis that is performed at Signature Genomics. Parental reports and an amended patient report are generated and sent to the ordering physician.
Please note that analysis of parental samples may reveal unexpected DNA dosage alterations that may have clinical significance for the parent. Genetic counseling is strongly recommended prior to submission of parental samples so that both parents understand the implications of this testing.
Requisition Form Instructions for Submitting Parental Samples
A separate requisition form must be completed for each parental sample submitted. Below are specific instructions to complete the SignatureChipWG™ and SignatureChipOS™ Requisition Form to expedite processing of parental samples. Please call the Laboratory with questions. Incorrect or missing information may delay sample processing.
- Patient Information
- Please provide parent name, demographic information and gender. Please submit a separate requisition form for each parent.
- Referring Physician
- Please provide the name and contact information of the ordering physician and the counselor/contact to whom results should be called.
- Billing Information
- Please check the Parental Sample box. Please note that Signature Genomics charges a reduced price in cases for which parental testing is medically indicated or recommended as standard of care for estimation of recurrence risks and genetic counseling. Signature Genomics does not charge for analysis of parental samples in cases for which parental samples are needed to interpret a microarray finding in the child or fetus that is of unclear clinical significance.
- Testing Information
- Please check the Parental Study box and provide the name and SGL# (Signature Genomics Laboratory accession number) of the patient. No further information is required in this section.
- Sample Information
- Please indicate sample type.
How to Submit a Pediatric/Adult Sample
For step-by-step instructions on submitting a sample, please visit our How To Submit a Pediatric/Adult Sample page.