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Peer-reviewed article

The Challenge of Analyzing the Results of Next-Generation Sequencing in Children

In recent years, next-generation sequencing technologies have revolutionized approaches to genetic studies. Whole-exome or whole-genome sequencing allows diagnoses in many patients who have complex phenotypes and unusual clinical…

By John D. LantosJanuary 1, 20161 min readin PEDIATRICS

In recent years, next-generation sequencing technologies have revolutionized approaches to genetic studies. Whole-exome or whole-genome sequencing allows diagnoses in many patients who have complex phenotypes and unusual clinical presentations. As genomic and exomic testing expands in both the research and clinical settings, pediatricians will need to understand the technology of next-generation sequencing and the complexity of interpreting genomic variants relevant to patient phenotypic features. This article briefly explains the technology by which genomes are sequenced and discusses some of the complexity related to interpreting genomic variants. We conclude with some thoughts on the clinical applications of such testing.

Originally published at PEDIATRICS · January 1, 2016.

About the author

John D. Lantos is a pediatrician and bioethicist writing on AI in medicine, neonatal intensive care, and end-of-life decisions. His essays appear in JAMA, JAMA Pediatrics, the Hastings Center Report, the New England Journal of Medicine, and Aeon. Read more about John.

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