Since the availability of testing for hereditary diseases, genetic testing of minors has stirred controversy as regards the ethical implications of the tests. The fear that genetic testing of children could have adverse social, emotional. psychosocial and educational consequences in childhood or later life has motivated a cautious approach. In summary, guidelines agree that genetic testing of children is appropriate in two situations. The first is the testing of a symptomatic child if the tests are likely to help establish a diagnosis and/or a prognosis and to avoid further invasive diagnostic tests. The second is predictive genetic testing in healthy children where onset of the condition regularly occurs in childhood and useful medical interventions can be offered.