DNA testing can be used to confirm if two individuals are identical or non-identical twins. This test may also be required to confirm suitability for organ or bone marrow donation.

'Identical' or 'monozygotic' twins develop from a single fertilised egg which then divides and develops as two separate embryos. Their DNA is therefore exactly the same, they will be the same sex and they are more likely to look like each other.

'Non-identical', 'fraternal' or 'dizygotic' twins develop from two separate fertilised eggs. Their DNA is similar, as with all siblings (brothers and sisters), but they can be different sexes and their DNA is not exactly the same.

Twins testing can be carried out on a simple mouth swab sample using the same type of DNA analysis that is used for paternity testing. We will provide details of the DNA profiles for each individual and confirm if the results are consistent with them being identical or non-identical twins.

For confidential advice and information on DNA testing for twins please call Cellmark free on 08000 362 522.

Cellmark has been providing court approved DNA relationship testing services for 20 years!