Predictive testing for pre-malignancy as a prelude to adoption? An English case.
Genetic testing as a preliminary to adoption has been discussed in the literature [BAAF/BSHG Statement on the use of DNA testing to determine racial background], together with the medical benefits derived from such testing ASHG/ACMG Statement [Am J Hum Genetics, 66: 761-767, 2000]. But specific cases that reach court are rare. Such a case was recently discussed on national radio [http://www.bbc.co.uk/radio4/science/ethicscommittee_s4_tr3.shtml], disclosing sufficient facts to allow analysis of the ethical and legal issues encountered. Furthermore, the outcome of the case, a court order to test the child in infancy, can be reviewed in the light of the current law, together with the geneticist's response to this order.
Wheeler
Robert
R
Southampton University Hospital, Tremona Road, Southampton, SO16 6YD, UK. robert.wheeler@suht.swest.nhs.uk
D000300:Adoption / Q000331:legislation & jurisprudence*; D002648:Child; D004992:Ethics, Medical; D005817:Genetic Counseling / Q000941:ethics; D030661:Genetic Privacy; D005820:Genetic Testing / Q000331:legislation & jurisprudence / Q000379:methods*; D006801:Humans; D007258:Informed Consent; D009369:Neoplasms / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000235:genetics; D009423:Nervous System Neoplasms / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000235:genetics; D018570:Risk Assessment / Q000379:methods; D012307:Risk Factors