ALTERNATIVE SAMPLES
If you need to take a DNA test and it is impossible to obtain a standard sample, either by mouth swab or blood, it is possible to use other types of samples. These are called ALTERNATIVE SAMPLES or DISCREET SAMPLES.
Information about alternative or discreet samples
Every cell in a person’s body has the same genetic code. This means any biological sample from the person will have the same genetic information. In our lab, we can analyze various biological samples, such as nails, hair with visible roots, earwax, and others.
The success of getting a complete DNA profile from a discreet sample depends on the quality of the sample and how well it has been preserved. Preserving an alternative sample properly is crucial to get the genetic information needed to compare with another person to determine if there is a biological relationship.
If the DNA sample has enough genetic information, we can analyze it, and the results will be as reliable and accurate as those from mouth swab or blood samples.
Important:
Our lab will do everything possible to successfully extract DNA from an alternative sample. This depends on the quality and preservation of the sample sent to us. If a sample does not contain enough DNA, a new sample will be required, and an additional fee will apply.
Why discreet samples for a DNA test?
Common reasons for using discreet or alternative samples for a DNA test:
- Solving doubts confidentially without causing family conflict.
- The mother has doubts about her child’s paternity.
- Obtain a person’s DNA without raising suspicion.
- A father wants to confirm his paternity in a confidential manner.
Our options in Alternative Samples:
Nail clippings
Dry Blood
Up to 95% probability of obtaining a complete genetic profile. A cotton ball or gaze with a visible stain of blood, once is dry should be placed in a paper bag or envelope, to avoid contamination.
Hair with Roots or follicle
Up to 90% probability of obtaining a complete genetic profile. A minimum of 7-10 strands of hair with visible roots or follicles required. The strands should be pulled out to ensure the presence of the root or follicles.
Ear Wax
Up to 80% probability of obtaining a complete genetic profile. Two q-tips with visible ear wax required. The q-tips must be saved in a paper bag or letter envelope to ensure sample integrity and avoid contamination.
Dental Floss
Up to 80% probability of obtaining a complete genetic profile. When collecting the sample, avoid touching the dental floss with your fingers. To obtain a clean sample, it is necessary to prevent any contamination of the dental floss with foreign agents.
Nasal Mucus
Up to 75% probability of obtaining a complete genetic profile. A tissue or Kleenex with visible mucus is required. It is important that the tissue is clean and free of other agents such as colors or parfum to obtain an adequate mucus sample.
Semen
Up to 50% probability of obtaining a complete genetic profile. The collection should be done with a swab, sterile cotton, or clean toilet paper to maintain sample integrity, once is dry save it in a paper bag or envelope.
Toothbrush
Up to 50% probability of obtaining a complete genetic profile. It must be dry before saving it in a paper bag or envelope.
We recommend to choose samples with the highest % of probability, as they have a better chance to obtain a successful extraction, therefore a complete genetic profile.
*DNA Solutions does not guarantee that the analysis or result will be successful based on these samples. We will do our best to obtain a conclusive result. If any sample does not have enough Dna, a new sample will be required. No refunds allowed.
