Unusual Testing List
Unusual DNA testing samples refer to any samples that are not typically used for DNA testing, such as hair, nails, or bones. These samples may require specialized testing methods and can provide unique insights into an individual's genetic makeup. However, it's important to note that the accuracy of DNA testing results can vary depending on the quality and type of sample used
Category A
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Bone Marrow (Fresh or Frozen - No marrow on slides or paraffin) – This test analyzes DNA from bone marrow samples that are either fresh (collected within 30 days) or frozen. Bone marrow samples prepared on slides or embedded in paraffin cannot be tested under this category.
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Blood on Paper (Also called Whatman, Matrix, or Parchment; less than 60 days old) – This test analyzes blood samples collected on specialized paper, often referred to as Whatman, Matrix, or Parchment paper. The sample must be less than 60 days old for accurate DNA analysis.
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Semen (Frozen vial [Sperm bank] or fresh swab; Semen on fabric listed in Category B; Condom listed in Category C) – This test analyzes semen samples collected in a frozen vial (e.g., from a sperm bank) or on a fresh swab. If semen is present on fabric, it falls under Category B, while semen collected from a condom is classified under Category C for testing.
Category B
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Blood on Fabric (Includes bandages, gauze, and facial tissues [Kleenex] or napkins) – This test analyzes blood samples found on various fabrics, including bandages, gauze, facial tissues, and napkins. The blood-stained area on the fabric is tested for DNA.
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Nail Clippings (Need 5-10 clippings) – This test analyzes DNA from nail clippings. A minimum of 5-10 clippings is required to obtain a sufficient sample for analysis.
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Cigarette Butts (Depends on type/brand) – This test analyzes DNA from cigarette butts, with the success rate depending on the type and brand of the cigarette. Certain types may yield better DNA results than others.
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Diabetic Test Strips (Need 5-6 strips) – This test analyzes DNA from diabetic test strips. A minimum of 5-6 strips is required to collect enough material for analysis.
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Tissue / Organ (CHAIN testing only; depends on age and storage conditions; if embalmed deceased, see Category C) – This test analyzes DNA from tissue or organ samples. It is limited to CHAIN testing and depends on factors such as the sample’s age and storage conditions. If the sample is from an embalmed deceased person, it falls under Category C.
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Chewing Gum (Sugarless preferred) – This test analyzes DNA from chewing gum, with a preference for sugarless gum. The gum should be well-chewed to ensure enough DNA material is present for testing.
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Ear Swab – This test analyzes DNA from an ear swab. The swab should be properly collected to ensure sufficient DNA for testing.
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Fetal Demise (CHAIN testing only; Need reference sample from Mother; success increases with age of fetus) – This test analyzes DNA in cases of fetal demise. CHAIN testing is required, and a reference sample from the mother is necessary. The success rate of the test increases with the age of the fetus.
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Semen Stain on Fabric (Area should be indicated on fabric; includes bandages, gauze, tissues, or napkins; Condom listed in Category C) – This test analyzes semen stains found on fabric, including bandages, gauze, facial tissues, and napkins. The area of the stain should be indicated on the fabric. Semen collected from a condom is categorized under Category C.
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Toothbrush – This test analyzes DNA from a toothbrush. The toothbrush must be used and should contain sufficient biological material for DNA extraction.
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Umbilical Cord (Need reference sample from Mother; cord should be dried) – This test analyzes DNA from the umbilical cord. A reference sample from the mother is required for comparison, and the umbilical cord should be properly dried before testing.
Category C
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Dental Floss – This test analyzes DNA from used dental floss, which should contain biological material from the person using it, such as blood or saliva.
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Pacifier – This test analyzes DNA from a used pacifier, typically containing saliva from the infant who used it.
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Tooth – This test analyzes DNA from an extracted or naturally lost tooth. The tooth should be intact to allow extraction of DNA from the root or pulp.
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Hair with Roots (Ensure roots are present; 7-10 pieces – shed or cut hair will not work) – This test analyzes DNA from hair samples, but it requires the presence of hair roots. A minimum of 7-10 strands with roots is necessary for testing, as shed or cut hair will not contain sufficient DNA.
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Razor (Send entire blade or disposable razor; debris can be sent in envelope) – This test analyzes DNA from a used razor. The entire blade or disposable razor should be sent for testing, and any biological debris collected can be sent in an envelope.
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Mucus (Facial tissue [Kleenex], napkin, or paper towel) – This test analyzes DNA from mucus samples, typically found on facial tissues, napkins, or paper towels that have been used to wipe the nose or mouth.
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Condom (Depends on storage condition; swab inside of condom) – This test analyzes DNA from the inside of a used condom. The storage condition of the condom can affect the quality of the sample, so proper handling is essential.
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Tissue in Paraffin (Paraffin block or slides) – This test analyzes DNA from tissue samples that have been embedded in paraffin, either as a block or on slides. The paraffin preserves the tissue, allowing for DNA extraction and testing.
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Soda Can / Drinking Glass / Plastic Cup (Swab well with cotton swab or send in article with area clearly marked) – This test analyzes DNA from items such as soda cans, drinking glasses, or plastic cups. The area where contact occurred should be swabbed well with a cotton swab, or the entire article can be sent with the specific area clearly marked.
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Feminine Hygiene Product (Tampon or feminine pad) – This test analyzes DNA from used feminine hygiene products, such as tampons or pads, which contain blood or other biological material.
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Drinking Straw – This test analyzes DNA from a used drinking straw, which typically contains saliva or other biological material from the person who used it.
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Envelope Flaps (Depends on age of envelope and how sealed) – This test analyzes DNA from the adhesive on envelope flaps. The success of the test can depend on the age of the envelope and how it was sealed (e.g., by licking or using a damp sponge).
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Tissue / Organ: Embalmed (Deceased has been embalmed; tissue in formalin/formaldehyde NOT accepted) – This test analyzes DNA from tissue or organs of a deceased individual who has been embalmed. However, tissue samples preserved in formalin or formaldehyde cannot be accepted for DNA testing.