Applications of DNA fingerprinting in pediatric practice.
Pediatric cases have played historic and precedent-setting roles in DNA forensics. DNA fingerprinting is a powerful tool for the pediatrician in cases of physical and sexual abuse and when issues arise regarding identification and familial relationships. If this technology is to be utilized effectively, the physician must know how to collect and document specimens. The pediatrician needs to be cautious in making referrals for commercial DNA banking. Whereas well-maintained and protected DNA repositories can be extremely valuable when there are medical and other appropriate indications, there are very real concerns about commercial DNA banking solely for purposes of identification. Pediatricians should recognize that this technology can be applied in novel but important new ways in their practices. For example, at the first indication of a possible mix-up of babies in the nursery, this should be acknowledged and rapidly resolved through DNA profiling of the parents and the neonates.
McCabe
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Institute for Molecular Genetics, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas 77030-3498.
D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D002650:Child Abuse, Sexual; D016172:DNA Fingerprinting / Q000379:methods*; D005104:Expert Testimony; D005260:Female; D005554:Forensic Medicine / Q000379:methods; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D010334:Paternity; D010372:Pediatrics / Q000379:methods*; D011110:Polymorphism, Genetic; D011902:Rape; D013048:Specimen Handling / Q000379:methods; D014481:United States