Will molecular genetic testing replace the caffeine halothane contracture test (CHCT) using biopsied muscle?

No. Not all MH susceptibles will, for the near future, have evidence of a DNA change. The CHCT by contrast is a very sensitive test, meaning that virtually all those with risk and susceptibility for MH will be detected by the contracture test. The genetic test will detect only about 30% of those at risk. However, the genetic test is very specific — that is, those with a positive test are virtually assured of being at risk for MH.