Title: Explain the advantages, disadvantages, and uses of molecular diagnostics.
Course: Medical Laboratory Technology II (14102-II) > Section: Understanding the Basics of Molecular Diagnostics

Explanation may include the following concepts:

- Advantages of molecular diagnostics
  - The ability to detect diseases that are difficult to identify by traditional methodology
  - Rapid diagnoses
  - More sensitive test methodology
  - Requirement of a minute sample (especially important in tuberculosis, hepatitis, chlamydia, gonorrhea, and certain other cases)
  - Use in paternity and forensic testing

- Disadvantages of molecular diagnostics
  - Relatively high cost
  - Higher level of technician training than is needed for traditional diagnostics

Process/Skill Questions:

- How has molecular diagnostic testing become important in the diagnosis of leukemia?
- What is meant by a genetic fingerprint? What is the relationship between the "genetic fingerprint" and molecular diagnosis?
- Why is rapid diagnosis through molecular testing important?