Accu-Metrics Genetic DNA Analysis Services

 

 

 

DNA Analysis - Frequently Asked Questions - (click questions to display answers)

 

General Questions

 

1) I live within or near the Toronto area, may I come in for immediate sample collection?

Yes, but please call (416) 691-4167 to confirm an appointment ahead of time.


2) Is my information private / confidential?

Yes, Accu-Metrics never notifies or releases any information about our clients to any police or government agencies without their prior consent.


3) How is the integrity of the test preserved after I submit my samples?

Each DNA sample you submit is individually barcoded, labelled and tracked via laser scanners throughout the stages of extraction and analysis. Robotic automation virtually eliminates any opportunities for human interference or error. Watch Video.


4) How accurate are the DNA analysis results?

The DNA analysis results are typically accurate to over 99.99% for inclusion and 100% for exclusion when testing for a biological father.


5) What is included in the DNA Sample Collection Kit?

The kit contains everything needed for collection and submission of samples from individuals being tested. Enclosed are detailed instructions and an order form to specify how you would like to receive your results and submit payment.


6) How long until my DNA sample kit arrives?

Sample collection kits are shipped out the next business day by your choice of regular mail or courier (call us to arrange courier shipping).


7) Will the DNA test kit arrive discreetly?

Yes, your kit will arrive in a plain manilla envelope that does not contain any mention of genetic testing or laboratory associated wording.


8) How and when do I pay for the testing?

If you are scheduling an appointment, you will have to make full payment for the testing at that time. If you are ordering a kit to collect your own samples, you will have to pay the lab processing fee when submitting your samples.
Acceptable payment methods: Credit Card (Visa, MasterCard, AmEx), Check, Money Order.


9) How is the DNA sample collected?

Samples are collected by brushing the inner cheeks with buccal swabs. Each cheek is swabbed for 30 seconds, and the swabs are then air dried for 30 minutes to minimize sample degradation. Detailed and illustrated instructions are included in every paternity kit.


10) How will I get the results?

Customers have the choice of receiving results by mail, fax, e-mail or telephone.


11) How long does it take to get the test results?

DNA analysis results are provided approximately 7 business days after receiving the samples at our laboratory.


12) What happens to my DNA samples once the test is complete?

For Informational DNA Testing cases, we destroy the samples you submit to us immediately following the release of your results.


13) From what samples is it possible to extract DNA?

Human DNA can be extracted from any body fluid or tissue (saliva, semen, blood, hair, nails etc.). DNA can also be extracted from any item that is contaminated with body fluids (chewing gum, cigarette butts, sanitary towels etc.) Please refer to our Alternative DNA Sample section and review our Non-standard DNA sample price list to see what is acceptable for DNA testing.


14) Is it possible to do DNA tests on hair samples?

Yes, it is possible to test hair samples. However, the hair follicles must remain intact and attached to the hair shaft. Visit our Alternative DNA Sample section to learn more.


15) Is it possible to do infidelity testing by DNA analysis?

There are some circumstances when it is possible to know if a woman has been with another man (or vice versa). For example, garments, sheets, etc. that would probably have semen, saliva or similar fluids on them can be analysed. Our laboratory could perform a presumptive test to detect the presence of semen or saliva. DNA tests can also be performed to determine if semen or saliva came from the person requesting the test or from another person. Visit our Alternative DNA Sample section to learn more.


 

 

Paternity Testing

 

16) How does a Paternity Test work?

Genetic testing identifies the unique genetic profile of an individual. The genetic profile of a child is inherited partly from the father and partly from the mother. By comparing the child's genetic profile with that of the alleged father, a DNA Paternity Test determines whether this person is the real biological father or can be excluded. The test is performed on buccal swab samples that can be collected with our DNA Sample Collection Kit and the samples are taken according to the DNA Sample Collection Guide provided in the kit.


17) How accurate is the Paternity Test?

Since we use 15 different genetic markers to build the genetic profile, results are typically over 99.99% accurate.


18) Is the mother's DNA required?

No, analysis of the father's and child's DNA typically provides conclusive results over 99.99% accurate.


19) What is included in the DNA Sample Collection Kit?

The kit contains everything you need to collect and submit samples. Each kit contains an order form, return envelope, and instruction booklet. Additionally, there is one collection envelope and two sterile swabs for each individual being tested.


20) Do I need a court or doctor’s order for a paternity test?

No, you do not need any court or doctor's order to have a legal or informative parentage test done.


21) What if I require a paternity test for legal or court proceedings.

Accu-metrics provides paternity testing for legal purposes. You can come to our collection office to have us witness your sample collection, or you may request our remote testing kit with chain of custody forms. Please contact us for further details or to schedule an appointment.


22) How old does a child need to be to perform a DNA paternity test?

A newborn infant can be tested. Taking a sample with a buccal swab is painless, and is not traumatic for the child.


23) Can a pregnant mother perform a paternity test before giving birth?

Yes, please visit out prenatal paternity testing page to learn more.


24) What is a buccal swab and is it as accurate as blood?

A buccal swab resembles a large cotton swab. It is used to collect a sample of cheek cells by simply rubbing the inside of the cheeks. It is as accurate as a blood test. A person should, however, abstain from drinking coffee, smoking or eating (or nursing for infants being tested) for a few hours prior to being sampled.


25) If the father is missing or deceased, is there a way to substitute a family member or provide an alternative DNA sample?

Yes, we accept Alternative DNA Samples. We can also accept a family member related to the alleged father as a substitute, please see our Relationship Testing Section to learn more. If you would like to learn more about these options, please contact us for more information.


26) What if I want to test more than one child or alleged parent?

Accu-Metrics charges an additional $100 fee for each additional child or alleged parent to be included in the test.


27) How will I receive my paternity test results?

Test results are provided through mail, telephone, fax, and e-mail.


28) What will my results include?

Results will provide a side by side comparison of the father and child's genetic profile, and a comparison calculation for each genetic marker through the paternity index. The overall results will also state the overall paternity index, the overall probability of paternity, and a clear statement that concludes if the alleged father is in fact the biological parent of the child.


29) What is the Combined Paternity Index?

The Paternity Index will be present in your results and is a number that represents the likelihood of paternity. The number is calculated based on how common the genetic information found in your test result is within your race population. The Paternity Indices for each genetic locus tested are used to calculate a Combined Paternity Index which can result in a 99.999% Probability of Paternity, or even higher in the case of a true match. As an example, if the CPI is 9,999,987 it means the odds of the tested father being the unique biological father are 9,999,987 to one.


30) What is the difference between "Legal" and "Informative" paternity testing?

There is no difference between either legal or informative testing regarding accuracy. Legal testing requires following a strict chain of custody procedure that involves a certified and unbiased third party to identify all involved parties and collect the samples to ensure that the results will be admissible in a court of law.


31) Will you protect my privacy?

Your privacy is respected and test results are strictly confidential. Information is never released without your authorization.


32) What happens if the tested parties live in different cities or states?

For informative testing, we can send split kits to all involved parties anywhere worldwide. Please call us beforehand so that we are aware of your situation.