Final answer:
Genetic testing is not routinely used for infectious diseases due to factors such as cost, accuracy, specialized equipment, and availability.
Step-by-step explanation:
Genetic testing is not routinely used as a medical diagnostic tool for infectious diseases due to several reasons:
- Genetic testing is expensive and time-consuming: The process of extracting DNA, amplifying the genes, and analyzing the results can be costly and time-consuming, making it impractical for routine use.
- Genetic testing is not accurate for diagnosing infectious diseases: Genetic testing is more commonly used for diagnosing genetic disorders and identifying genetic predispositions rather than identifying specific infectious diseases.
- Genetic testing requires specialized equipment and expertise: Performing genetic testing requires specialized laboratory equipment and trained personnel to carry out the process accurately.
- Genetic testing is not widely available: Not all healthcare facilities have the necessary resources and infrastructure to offer genetic testing, making it less accessible on a routine basis.