The DNA Központ paternity tests are performed with 99.999% probability of paternity and 100% scientific validity — to date we have issued more than 1,000,000 forensic DNA test reports. We carry out our tests with internationally accredited partner laboratories (Eurofins, AlphaBiolabs, ISO 17025). Our partner laboratories hold the certifications of GEDNAP (German DNA Diagnostics Society) and ISFG (International Society for Forensic Genetics), as well as the accreditation of the UK Ministry of Justice.
Below we explain in detail what "accuracy" and "probability" mean in the result of a DNA test, and how we ensure that the result obtained corresponds to reality in every case.
Accuracy and probability — what is the difference?
In the field of paternity testing, the terms accuracy and probability are often confused.
- Accuracy is the measure of the validity of the test. It depends on the quality of the testing procedures and the expertise of the persons performing the test.
- Probability indicates the likelihood of the biological relationship being tested.
A more detailed explanation of these terms can be found below.
Accuracy
The genetic tests of DNS Központ are 100% valid because:
- We run the DNA test twice. The samples are always tested independently by two work teams, and their results are then compared to make sure they are identical. This greatly reduces the possibility of mix-up or cross-contamination errors that could lead to a false exclusion (an incorrect report stating that the man tested is not the father).
- Experienced experts work in our laboratory. Our specialists hold PhD degrees and have decades of experience in the field of genetic testing, and are skilled in evaluating the results of DNA tests. Every report is reviewed by Dr. Attila Bezzegh, forensic genetic expert, as well as by the partner laboratory's PhD specialist, before the results are forwarded.
- We examine additional markers when needed. Where justified, the laboratory examines further loci in addition to the standard 24 markers — up to 26 loci in total — to make the result beyond any doubt. This is necessary in more difficult situations: for example, when the alleged fathers are relatives of one another, or when we are dealing with a mutation.
- Our laboratory is up to date. The lab is equipped with the latest DNA testing technologies. PCR machines, thermocyclers, robots and genetic analysers all reduce the possibility of human error, thereby supporting the accuracy of the results.
- Independent, international quality control. Our partner laboratories take part in regular, anonymised round-robin tests — including the blind-test programmes of GEDNAP (Germany) and ISFG (International Society for Forensic Genetics). This means that a third party also continuously verifies the credibility of our test results.
No other laboratory can claim all of these at the same time.
Probability
When you receive a paternity test result, you see a probability of paternity. This tells you how likely it is that the alleged father is indeed the biological father of the child.
- A probability of paternity of 99.999% or higher means that the alleged father tested cannot be excluded as the biological father of the child. In paternity tests we typically achieve a probability of over 99.999%.
- A probability of paternity of 0% means that the alleged father tested is not the biological father of the child.
What does 99.999% mean in practice?
From a statistical point of view, a probability of paternity of 99.999% means that out of one million randomly selected men, at most ten would show the same genetic match with the child — and the man tested is one of them. Since he is the only one among those involved in the test for whom there is any suspicion of biological paternity at all, in practical terms this is biological certainty of paternity.
In the case of a Trio test (child + mother + alleged father) we often achieve a value of over 99.9999%, which is a tenfold tightening of the above ratio. This is why we recommend involving the mother whenever possible.
If the alleged father cannot be excluded as the biological father, the probability of paternity will always be 99.999% or above (often above 99.9999%). This percentage is a calculated value based on population statistics, which forms the basis of the calculations giving the probability of relationship. A probability of 100% can never be guaranteed — to achieve this, every other man in the world would have to be tested and excluded.
Other DNA-based relationship tests give similar probabilities. A grandparent test shows the probability of the grandparent relationship; a maternity test shows the probability of motherhood. These values should be evaluated in the same way as above.
Therefore, when the test result is 99.999% (or higher), or 0%, you can be sure that the test is 100% valid — corresponding to reality.
How can you verify the accuracy yourself?
Accuracy is not simply a marketing promise with us — you can check it yourself in the following ways:
- Accreditation documents: the ISO 17025 certifications of our partner laboratories (Eurofins, AlphaBiolabs), as well as the GEDNAP, ISFG and UK Ministry of Justice accreditations, can be viewed publicly on our website in original certificate PDF format.
- View a sample report: on our This is what the report looks like page you will find a sample report — you can see that the result contains, item by item, all the markers (loci) tested, the alleles obtained, the calculated paternity index and the final probability. This can be used in any official procedure.
- Repeatability: the result of a DNA-based paternity test is a scientifically established fact — it gives the same result upon repetition, provided the samples come from the same persons. Should you have any doubts for any reason, the test can be repeated at any time.
- Court recognition: our forensic expert opinions based on certified sample collection are regularly accepted by Hungarian and international courts. Furthermore, our more than 1,000,000 issued reports have been standing the test of legal proceedings for decades.
Order your test directly from a 100% reliable laboratory
Now that you know what "DNA test accuracy" really means, the next step is simple:
- ➤ View available tests — paternity DUO from 69,999 HUF, with home sample collection
- ➤ Prenatal (NIPP) paternity test — from as early as the 8th week of pregnancy, with no risk to the fetus
- ➤ Detailed guide to the traditional paternity test
Not sure which test fits your situation? Call +36-20/373-5580 — every day between 09:00–19:00, on weekends and holidays between 10:00–14:00. The consultation is free, and our expert will help you choose the test best suited to your situation.
