What does “cannot be excluded” mean in DNA?

“Cannot be excluded” means a person’s DNA is consistent with the profile detected, but it does not mean they are the only possible contributor.

In DNA testing, this phrase is used when the results do not rule a person out. It indicates that their DNA could be present, but it does not confirm that it is, nor does it establish how it was deposited.

This wording commonly arises in mixed DNA profiles, where genetic material from more than one person is present. In these situations, multiple individuals may be consistent with the findings.

Importantly, “cannot be excluded” is not the same as identification. It does not mean the DNA belongs to that person, only that the result does not eliminate them as a possible contributor.

The phrase also does not explain when the DNA was deposited, how it was transferred, or what activity led to its presence. These questions require interpretation beyond the laboratory result.