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Medical information Clinical review pending

Endocrine Testing

Alpha Subunit Test

The Alpha Subunit Test helps evaluate potential disorders of the pituitary gland, often related to hormonal imbalances. This test is important for diagnosing certain endocrine conditions.

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
2 mL (1 mL minimum) serum from 1 Red Top tube (No Additive). Do not use SST gel barrier tubes.
Results
Reports are typically available 2 to 3 weeks after sample submission. Samples should be submitted by the 7th of the month for timely processing.
Preparation
Confirm with the laboratory before booking. A duly filled Test Send Out Consent Form (Form 35) is mandatory.
Test priceKSh 36,000

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 Alpha Subunit Test 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.

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.

  • ✓Suspected pituitary gland disorders
  • ✓Evaluation of hormonal imbalances
  • ✓Diagnosis of pituitary tumors
  • ✓Monitoring response to pituitary treatment
  • ✓Symptoms like unexplained weight changes or fatigue
  • ✓Family history of endocrine disorders
02

In plain language

What this test helps you understand

This test aids in the diagnosis and monitoring of pituitary gland disorders, particularly those involving hormone production. It helps clinicians understand the underlying cause of hormonal imbalances.
The Alpha Subunit Test is a diagnostic tool used to assess the function of the pituitary gland. It measures the levels of alpha subunit hormones in the blood, which can be elevated in certain pituitary disorders. This test is often used when a doctor suspects a problem with the pituitary gland, such as a tumor or other condition affecting hormone production. Understanding these hormone levels is crucial for diagnosis and guiding treatment. This test is particularly relevant for individuals experiencing symptoms suggestive of hormonal imbalances or pituitary dysfunction. Our laboratory offers this test with convenient sample collection options across Kenya.
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 →
PreparationConfirm with the laboratory before booking. A duly filled Test Send Out Consent Form (Form 35) is mandatory.
Sample2 mL (1 mL minimum) serum from 1 Red Top tube (No Additive). Do not use SST gel barrier tubes.
MethodologyConfirm with the laboratory before booking.
PrivacyYour sample and report are handled confidentially. Ask the team how your information is stored and shared.
This test measures alpha subunit levels, which can be elevated in various conditions, not just pituitary disorders. Results must be interpreted in the context of the patient's clinical presentation and other tests.
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

This test measures the levels of alpha subunit hormones in your blood serum, which can indicate certain disorders of the pituitary gland.
Your doctor may order this test if you have symptoms of hormonal imbalance or if they suspect a disorder related to your pituitary gland.
You will need a completed Test Send Out Consent Form (Form 35). Please confirm any other specific preparation instructions with the laboratory before your appointment.
A blood sample (serum) is required for this test. Specific collection tube requirements apply.
Results are generally available within 2 to 3 weeks after the sample is received by the laboratory.
Yes, we offer a home sample collection service for your convenience. Please contact us to arrange this.
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.

Explore partnerships
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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