Defining and managing incidental findings in genetic and genomic practice (Contributed by Dr Sandi Dheensa)

Our review explored questions about the management and disclosure of incidental genomic findings—those discovered through whole-genome approaches, but unrelated to the question that was asked. We have discussed the various terms used for such findings; factors that determine disclosure; differences in clinical, research and commercial settings; and ethical/practical issues about familial implications and re-contacting testees. Our recommendations include that greater international consensus is developed around disclosure and management; findings are referred to in appropriately different ways according to context; clear consent processes are used, but the absence of consent should not always preclude disclosure; and ways to use the genome output as a resource, accessible over time, are identified, particularly to facilitate disclosure and re-contact when previously unclear findings are clarified. (http://jmg.bmj.com/content/early/2014/09/16/jmedgenet-2014-102435 )

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