what can be used to identify a genetic disorder
Genetic testing is the analysis of chromosomes (DNA), proteins, and certain metabolites in order to detect heritable disease-related genotypes, mutations, phenotypes, or karyotypes for clinical purposes.. 1  It can provide information about a person's genes and chromosomes throughout life. Available types of testing include: 1  Cell-free fetal DNA (cffDNA) testing is a non-invasive (for the fetus) test. 2  Newborn screening: Newborn screening is used just after birth to identify genetic disorders that can be treated early in life. A blood sample is collected with a heel prick from the newborn 24â48 hours after birth and sent to the lab for analysis.