Use

WES is currently intended for use by patients suspected to have a genetic disorder. While the test is most frequently ordered for patients who have been unable to obtain a definitive diagnosis through traditional genetic testing, physicians may opt to initiate whole exome sequencing earlier in the diagnostic pathway. An initial workup using whole exome sequencing may be especially useful when a multigene testing approach is desired but would be prohibitively time-consuming, or when a known genetic disorder is suspected but testing for the genes of interest is not available. Patients with atypical presentation of a suspected syndrome may be candidates for exome sequencing. While patients can be of any age, many of the patients with the most pressing need for exome-wide interpretation are children with serious childhood genetic diseases. TRIO testing consists of a proband or patient sample, and both biological parents. In the case both parents are not available for testing, up to two family member samples are also accepted. TRIOs are preferred for better diagnostic sensitivity.