Ethical Issues

Limitations of Genetic Testing
Some genetic tests do not identify all of the possible gene mutations that can cause a particular condition. The test may subsequently require difficult decisions without providing full information.
Genetic testing is unable to provide a definite result or an indication of severity of the condition.
E.g. If both parents are carriers of the CF gene. prenatal diagnosis can be performed to determine whether a foetus has inherited a CF gene mutation from each parent. Knowing that a foetus has inherited 2 CF mutations, however, does not, at this time, predict the severity of CF in the baby.

Should the Information Be Obtained if No Treatment or Intervention Exists?

Undesired Options After Genetic Testing
a positive prenatal test result creates additional decisions for women and couples, including consideration of invasive testing, such as amniocentesis, and the possibility of pregnancy termination.
Ethically, a dilemma may present if that the couple should not wish to make such decisions

False-Positive and False-Negative Results
Multiple marker screening detects about 80% of pregnancies in which an open neural tube defect is present and about 60% of pregnancies in which Down syndrome is present.
Most women who receive false-positive results have normal pregnancy outcomes; however, these results often lead to further diagnostic testing, leading to increased anxiety about possible outcomes including pregnancy termination.
Based on the outcomes of these tests parents may make the decision to terminate, or not to terminate.

Potential Adverse Personal or Societal Consequences
Persons who qualify for genetic testing may believe it is more difficult to obtain insurance because of the testing or are afraid to change jobs because of fear of losing health insurance.
Some persons at risk for HD have been reluctant to discuss genetic testing with their health care provider because of fears that this information may be revealed to their health insurance carrier.