Clinical genome and exome sequencing (WGS and WES): return of incidental results – when, how and why?

Authors

  • Gemma Marfany Nadal Universitat de Barcelona.

Keywords:

incidental findings in genetic diagnosis, whole genome sequencing, whole exome sequencing, WGS, WES.

Abstract

In recent years, the costs in budget and time required for massive whole genome and exome sequencing (WGS and WES) have dropped to unprecedented levels, making single genome analysis feasible. Currently, public and private clinicians (for instance, in oncology) can address the exhaustive genetic diagnosis of a single patient. Nonetheless, while identifying the pathogenic mutations responsible for a particular genetic disorder, incidental results on genetic variants relevant to health (e.g. risk or susceptibility variants associated with colon or breast cancer, Alzheimer’s disease or autoimmune disorders) may also be revealed. What should we do with these unsolicited incidental results? What considerations should be weighed or under what circumstances should we consider them? What are the bioethical premises that challenge personalized medicine?

Keywords: incidental findings in genetic diagnosis, whole genome sequencing, whole exome sequencing, WGS, WES.

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