Post-Mortem Viability Test

It is possible to perform DNA testing on deceased individuals using their stored samples. The post-mortem viability test is performed on a sample from a deceased individual to determine if the sample yields sufficient viable DNA to proceed with further testing. The fee for the viability test is separate from the relationship-test fee, and varies according to the sample type, as specified in the Unusual Samples List.

 

 

Turnaround Time

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• Five (5) business days from receipt of samples

 

Chain-of-Custody Requirements

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• Post-mortem samples submitted for DNA testing must fulfill the following requirements:

• Deceased samples are collected by a neutral third party, such as a coroner’s office, funeral home, or medical examiner

• The deceased individual’s next of kin completes and signs a Deceased Patient Custodian Consent Form (COC-4004) to authorize testing; this is submitted together with a copy of the next of kin’s ID

• Next-of-kin relationship must be verified at the time of signing consent

• The collector of the laboratory storing the deceased sample signs the Postmortem Specimen Identification Form (COC-4005).

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Upon confirmation of viable DNA samples, chain of custody requirements for the subsequent DNA test (e.g., paternity test) to be conducted must be used.

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• Samples are collected by a neutral third party, such as a clinic or laboratory

• The individuals tested are positively identified (i.e., they present a government-issued ID to be photocopied and/or they are photographed)

• A standard kit is used

• Each party completes and signs a Client Identification and Consent Form (COC-4002-CA)

• The kit may not be in the possession of the clients prior to or after being collected

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Non-Chain of Custody Requirements

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• Post-mortem testing for non-chain-of-custody purposes is not performed by TADNA

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Information to be Obtained from Clients

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• Type and quantity of available samples

• Storage method of available samples (e.g., frozen, refrigerated, or room temperature)

• Type of container the samples have been stored in (e.g. purple-top EDTA tube)

• The date and cause of death

• Confirmation that the facility in possession of the stored samples is willing to release the samples; (many medical examiners and hospitals require either a court order or written permission from the next of kin before releasing a sample)