Challenges and Errors in Genetic Testing: The Sixth Case Series

This case series explores ongoing and emerging challenges in genetic testing, focusing on errors and complexities encountered as testing becomes routine across diverse clinical settings.

Cases were solicited from clinicians in multiple specialties via professional networks and social media between 2021 and 2025. Deidentified documentation was reviewed when available, and 15 cases were selected for thematic analysis. Contributors reviewed and approved the representation of their cases.

Analysis revealed persistent gaps in communication, coordination, and interpretation of genetic test results. Themes included proactive intervention by genetics professionals, missed opportunities for counseling, evolving complexities in variant interpretation, system failures, delayed diagnoses, and risks of testing without a clear clinical indication. Cases reflected the expanding reach of genetic testing into oncology, primary care, and obstetrics and gynecology, as well as nononcologic contexts.

The cases highlight the importance of responsible integration of genetic testing into mainstream medical practice. Effective use of digital tools, structured workflows, and interprofessional collaboration is essential to support quality and efficiency. Shared responsibility among providers, laboratories, and technology partners is needed to ensure accurate interpretation and management. Genetic counselors play a central role in designing scalable, high-integrity systems and guiding teams through the complexities of genomic medicine.