Best practices for the interpretation and reporting of clinical whole genome sequencing

Whole genome sequencing (WGS) shows promise as a first-tier diagnostic test for patients with rare genetic disorders. However, standards addressing the definition and deployment practice of a best-in-class test are lacking. To address these gaps, the Medical Genome Initiative, a consortium of leading health care and research organizations in the US and Canada, was formed to expand access to high quality clinical WGS by convening experts and publishing best practices. Here, we present best practice recommendations for the interpretation and reporting of clinical diagnostic WGS, including discussion of challenges and emerging approaches that will be critical to harness the full potential of this comprehensive test.

Automated summary

Whole genome sequencing (WGS) has the potential to become a first-tier diagnostic test for patients with rare genetic disorders. However, there is a lack of standards for defining and implementing the best test. To address this issue, the Medical Genome Initiative formed a consortium of experts to publish best practice recommendations and improve the quality of clinical WGS.