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Cytogenetics

RB1 Gene Deletion and Duplication Detection Retinoblastoma

Detects deletions or duplications in the RB1 gene, crucial for diagnosing Retinoblastoma, a childhood eye cancer. Helps assess risk and guide treatment.

General information only: This page is not a diagnosis or personal medical advice. A qualified clinician should decide whether testing is appropriate and interpret results in context.

Review status: No completed medical review is recorded for this page.

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Counselor guidance included Confidential handling Kenya-wide coordination

At a glance

Plan your test

Sample
Blood sample (usually collected in an EDTA tube). Confirm specific requirements with the laboratory before booking.
Results
Confirm with the laboratory before booking.
Preparation
No special preparation is required for the patient. However, a doctor's prescription is necessary to order this test. Please consult your physician.
Test priceKSh 21,000

Payment: M-Pesa and card options can be confirmed during booking.

Insurance & government schemes

Is this test covered for you?

We help you verify whether the RB1 Gene Deletion and Duplication Detection Retinoblastoma test can be claimed against your insurer, employer scheme or a Kenyan government health scheme — before you book. Coverage depends on your plan, clinical indication and your provider's rules; final approval always rests with them.

Talk to a claims advisor

Providers & schemes we can help you check

Government & public schemes

SHIF — Social Health Insurance Fund Linda Mama EduAfya NHIF (legacy cards)

Eligibility and benefits follow the current rules of the Social Health Authority (SHA) and applicable government programmes.

Private insurers & employer schemes

Jubilee Health AAR APA Britam CIC Madison Resolution Pioneer Minet Old Mutual GA Life Heritage + other licensed insurers

Names shown for identification only — listing does not imply partnership or guarantee of coverage.

Have these ready when we check

  • Insurer or scheme name & policy / member number
  • A clinician's request / prescription for the test
  • Pre-authorisation letter, if your plan requires one

Free coverage check

Ask us to verify your cover

Send your details and our claims team confirms what documents you need and whether pre-authorisation applies — usually the same working day.

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Used only to process your coverage check — see our Privacy Policy. Verification support is free and does not guarantee your provider will pay.

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01

Start with fit

Is this the right test for you?

The best test starts with a clear clinical question. These are common reasons a clinician or family may consider this test.

  • ✓Child with suspected Retinoblastoma (e.g., white pupil, crossed eyes).
  • ✓Family history of Retinoblastoma.
  • ✓Family history of other cancers potentially linked to RB1 mutations.
  • ✓Genetic counseling for families with known RB1 mutations.
  • ✓Assessment of hereditary cancer risk.
02

In plain language

What this test helps you understand

This test helps identify genetic changes (deletions or duplications) in the RB1 gene associated with Retinoblastoma. It aids in diagnosis, risk assessment for family members, and informs treatment decisions.
The RB1 Gene Deletion and Duplication Detection test is a key diagnostic tool used to identify Retinoblastoma, a rare eye cancer that primarily affects young children. This test looks for specific changes, known as deletions or duplications, within the RB1 gene. These genetic alterations are strongly linked to the development of Retinoblastoma. Early identification of these changes is vital as it can significantly impact treatment strategies and improve patient outcomes. The test is performed using the MLPA (Multiplex Ligation-dependent Probe Amplification) method, which is known for its accuracy in detecting these types of genetic variations. Understanding the genetic basis of Retinoblastoma allows healthcare providers to offer personalized care and appropriate monitoring for affected individuals and their families.
03

Medical review status

Clinical review pending

A completed medical review is not recorded for this page. No clinician has endorsed the information shown here. Please discuss testing decisions with a qualified healthcare professional.

Meet the DNA Labs Kenya medical team →
04

A simple process

What happens next?

You do not have to navigate the test alone. We help you move from question to next step.

1

Speak with us

We check the test and answer your questions before collection.

2

Give your sample

Choose home collection or a coordinated hub visit in Kenya. We explain whether this test uses a cheek swab or blood draw.

3

Understand your report

A counselor helps you understand the result and the next steps.

05

Choose your collection

Home collection or a lab visit

We will explain the sample, preparation, and next steps before anything is collected.

Home collection

Choose a coordinated visit at home or another convenient location. Our team confirms the appointment and sample requirements in advance.

Lab or hub visit

Prefer to visit a coordinated location? We can guide you to the right hub and explain what to expect when you arrive.

Ask about locations →
PreparationNo special preparation is required for the patient. However, a doctor's prescription is necessary to order this test. Please consult your physician.
SampleBlood sample (usually collected in an EDTA tube). Confirm specific requirements with the laboratory before booking.
MethodologyMultiplex Ligation-dependent Probe Amplification (MLPA).
PrivacyYour sample and report are handled confidentially. Ask the team how your information is stored and shared.
This test specifically detects deletions and duplications within the RB1 gene. It does not detect point mutations or other types of genetic alterations. A negative result does not completely rule out Retinoblastoma or other genetic conditions. Confirm with the laboratory before booking.
06

Read your report

What common result terms mean

PositiveA finding was identified. Your clinician or counselor will explain what it means for your care.
NegativeThe specific finding tested for was not identified. It does not rule out every possible cause.
VUSA variant was found, but current evidence is not enough to classify it. Your counselor can explain follow-up.
07

Questions people ask

Frequently asked questions

Retinoblastoma is a rare type of eye cancer that usually develops in early childhood, typically before the age of 5.
The RB1 gene is a tumor suppressor gene. Changes (like deletions or duplications) in this gene can increase the risk of developing Retinoblastoma.
This test is recommended for children suspected of having Retinoblastoma, or those with a family history of the condition.
A blood sample is typically required for this test. We offer home sample collection services for convenience.
Turnaround time varies. Please confirm the current estimated turnaround time with the laboratory before booking.
Yes, a doctor's prescription is required to order this test.
08

Collaboration

Open for partnership with hospitals, clinics, doctors & researchers

Whether you are referring patients, building a research programme or supporting students, we work as an extension of your team — with responsive communication and clear scientific standards.

Hospitals & clinics

Referral pathways, coordinated sample logistics and shared reporting that fits your clinical workflow.

Doctors & specialists

LOINC-coded reports, ACMG-based variant classification and a direct scientific line for complex cases.

Research institutions

Sanger sequencing, NGS panels and custom assays — with project design support, batch pricing and agreed turnaround commitments.

Students & academic projects

Discounted laboratory services for college, master's and PhD research projects — including proposal guidance and cost-effective batch testing.

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09

Trust & transparency

Sources, standards & how this page is maintained

Standards & references

  • ACMG/AMP technical standards for sequence variant interpretation
  • ClinGen curation and gene–disease validity frameworks where applicable
  • LOINC-coded reporting for interoperable results
  • ISO 9001:2015 quality management; ISO 15189 accreditation in progress

Page provenance

  • Last updated: September 27, 2026
  • Medical review: not yet completed
  • Written for patients & clinicians in Kenya; reviewed periodically against current guidance

Medical disclaimer: this page is general information, not a diagnosis or personal medical advice. Testing decisions and result interpretation should be made with a qualified healthcare professional.

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