Point mutations are harder to detect, but this kind of testing can also be done in some laboratories. The tests are ordered by your doctor and done in a specially equipped lab. Test results are usually interpreted for you by a genetic counselor, who can explain what the results mean and answer questions. In almost all cases, the test results can definitely determine whether or not FRDA is the correct diagnosis. While the test can determine the number of triplet repeat units present, these results can't be used to predict the disease course.
Prenatal testing is also available.
In some centers, there are policies against testing minor children for genetic conditions.