Genetic Mismatch Found Between Father and Son After IVF Treatment

A genetic mismatch has been discovered between a father and his 13-year-old son, born following an IVF procedure at Assuta Hospital in Rishon Lezion. The discrepancy was identified through genetic testing approximately 13 years after the fertilization treatment. The sperm samples used in the procedure had been transferred between three hospitals: one in the United States, another in Jerusalem, and finally Assuta in Rishon Lezion. Remaining sperm samples have now been sent to an independent external laboratory for further examination to help clarify the origin of the mismatch. It is currently undetermined whether the error, if one occurred, happened at Assuta Rishon Lezion or at one of the preceding medical facilities. The Ministry of Health stated that it is examining the case details, including the circumstances of the treatment and tests performed, and that the matter is undergoing a comprehensive professional review with Assuta Rishon Lezion.

This incident follows a history of suspected serious issues within Israel's IVF units. Notably, in September 2022, the Assuta Rishon Lezion hospital was involved in a case where embryos were swapped, resulting in a child born to parents who were not her genetic match. This led to a lengthy legal process that concluded with the child remaining with her adoptive parents. Other cases have been reported at Assuta Ramat HaChayal. In August of the previous year, the Ministry of Health received a report about a DNA test of two siblings, expected to be from the same sperm donation, which revealed they did not share a biological father. In response to a series of incidents, the Ministry of Health published new standards and guidelines for IVF units in 2024. These include requirements for a witnessing system to prevent identification errors, temperature and gas monitoring systems, mandatory annual reporting to the Ministry of Health, and participation in external quality control programs.