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Misattributed paternity discovery: A critique of medical organizations' recommendations

Richard Wenzel1, Gina Daniel2, Jodi Girard3

  • 1Whitestown, IN, USA.

American Journal of Human Genetics
|February 4, 2025
PubMed

Insights

Five individuals discovered misattributed paternity (MP), with two finding their pediatricians aided the deception. Current medical guidance on discovering MP has critical flaws and risks, necessitating improvements in management strategies.

Area of Science:

  • Medical Ethics
  • Genetics
  • Paternity

Background:

  • Misattributed paternity (MP) is a complex issue with significant emotional and familial implications.
  • Medical professionals may have historically been involved in paternity deception, impacting individuals' understanding of their biological origins.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To critique existing medical guidance for discovering misattributed paternity (MP).
  • To identify shortcomings, contradictions, and potential hazards in current MP discovery protocols.
  • To propose opportunities for enhancing the management of MP discovery.

Main Methods:

  • Qualitative analysis of personal experiences with misattributed paternity.
  • Critical review of medical organizations' guidance on MP discovery.
  • Expert opinion from authors with direct experience of MP and historical paternity deception.

Main Results:

  • Current medical guidance on MP discovery is inadequate, containing contradictions and clinical/legal hazards.
  • Physician involvement in historical paternity deception has been identified.
  • There are clear opportunities to improve the process of managing MP discovery.

Conclusions:

  • Existing medical guidelines for misattributed paternity (MP) require urgent revision.
  • Improved protocols are needed to address the clinical and legal complexities of MP discovery.
  • A more sensitive and ethical approach to managing MP is essential for patient well-being.
Keywords:
disclosuregenetic testingmisattributed paternity

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