Read the Case-Based Curriculum for Neurology Residents.

Genetic Testing Page 2
enploynrent), the benefits ofenhanced knowledgc about genotype (whether test is positive or negative), and
any negative consequences of not testing (e.g., transmission ofa detectablc disease-associated genotype to
offspring). Once there has been adequatcounseling, documentedisclosure ofmaterial information, and
voluntary agreelrlent lo testing by a competent patient or lawful surrogate, neurologists are ethically justificd in
ordering a genetic tcst that may diagnose, predict, strggest vulnerability to, or exclude a major neurologic
disorder. Neurologists should not order genetic tests ofthis sorl at th(] rcquest oflncnrbcrs ofpatients' fal1rilies
or other third parties (e.g., insurers, ernploycrs) withouthc express writlen conscnt of a paticnt or lawful
surroga(e.
4. Confidentiality. Tesr data confinning that patients or fal]lily nembers carry genes that indicate or predict
susccptibility to nrajor neurologic disorders are highly sensitive- Accordingly, neurologist rvho obtain such data
should inrplenrent rigorous measures to ensure their confidentiality and should never disclose such data to third
parties without explicit written authorization from tested personal or their lawfnl surrogates.
Acknowledgment
Practice Comnittee thanks the expert reviewers of this document: Thomas M. Bosley, MD; Walter G. Bradley, DM,
FRCP; David A. StLrnpl MD, PhD; and AAN's Therapeutics and Technology Assessment Subcommittee.
The Gcnetics l'esting Task Force: H. Richard Bereslbrd, MD; James L. Benrat, MD; Mitchell F. Brin, MD; John H
FergLrson, MD, Clrair; jay H. Rosenberg, MD; Russell D. Snyder, Jr, MD.
Note. This statenlent is provided as an educational servicc ofthe American Academy ofNeurology. lt is not
intended to include all possible proper methods ofcare for a particular neurological problem or to exclude any
specific alternative therapies. The AAN recognizes that specific patient care decisions are the prerogative of the
patient and the physician caring for the patient, based on all ofthe circumstances involved.
Approved by the AAN Practice Committee on December 9, 1995. Approved by thc AAN Executive Board on
January I3, 1996. Published in Neurology 1996t47:1343-1344.
Address correspondence and reprints requests to Praclice Conrmittee, American Acadenry ofNeurology, 1080
Montreal Avenue, St. Paul, MN. 551 l6 or crstomer service at l-800-879-1960.
Copyright O 1996 by the Anerican Acadeny ofNeurology.