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ENT Testing

Csf Leakage Evaluation Nasalear Discharge Test

This test helps detect cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leaks in nasal or ear discharge, often following head injuries. It measures Beta-2 Transferrin Protein levels to confirm the presence of CSF.

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
Two samples are required: 1 mL (minimum) of nasal or ear discharge collected in a sterile, screw-capped container, and 1 mL (minimum) of serum collected in a Serum Separator Tube (SST).
Results
Results are typically available same-day for samples submitted by 9 am on Mondays and Thursdays. Confirm with the laboratory before booking.
Preparation
No specific patient preparation is required for this test. Ensure samples are collected as instructed by your doctor.
Test priceKSh 15,000

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 Csf Leakage Evaluation Nasalear Discharge 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.

  • ✓Fluid discharge from the nose or ears
  • ✓Persistent or severe headaches
  • ✓Suspected CSF leak after head injury
  • ✓Symptoms following neurosurgical procedures
  • ✓Neurological symptoms like dizziness or confusion
  • ✓Clear nasal or ear discharge after trauma
02

In plain language

What this test helps you understand

This test is used to confirm or rule out a cerebrospinal fluid leak from the nose or ear, helping to guide diagnosis and treatment decisions, especially after head trauma or neurosurgery.
The Csf Leakage Evaluation Nasalear Discharge Test is a specialized diagnostic procedure used to determine if cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) is present in discharge from the nose or ears. This is particularly important for individuals who have experienced head trauma, recent surgery, or have symptoms suggesting a potential CSF leak. Accurate identification of a CSF leak is crucial for preventing complications and ensuring appropriate medical management.

This test measures the levels of Beta-2 Transferrin Protein (BTP) in both the nasal/ear discharge sample and a serum (blood) sample. BTP is a protein found almost exclusively in CSF. By comparing the BTP levels in these two samples, healthcare providers can reliably determine if the discharge contains CSF. The test utilizes the nephelometry method for precise measurement.
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.

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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 specific patient preparation is required for this test. Ensure samples are collected as instructed by your doctor.
SampleTwo samples are required: 1 mL (minimum) of nasal or ear discharge collected in a sterile, screw-capped container, and 1 mL (minimum) of serum collected in a Serum Separator Tube (SST).
MethodologyNephelometry is used to measure the levels of Beta-2 Transferrin Protein (BTP) in the nasal/ear discharge and serum samples.
PrivacyYour sample and report are handled confidentially. Ask the team how your information is stored and shared.
The accuracy of the test depends on proper sample collection and handling. Contamination of the discharge sample can affect results. 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

CSF is a clear fluid surrounding the brain and spinal cord, providing protection and nutrients. A leak occurs when this fluid escapes.
Detecting a CSF leak early allows for timely treatment, preventing potential complications like infection (meningitis).
The test requires a sample of nasal or ear discharge and a blood sample (serum) to measure specific protein levels.
Samples should be shipped refrigerated and must not be frozen. Please follow specific laboratory instructions for transport.
Your doctor will interpret the results based on the BTP levels in your samples. Discuss the findings with your healthcare provider.
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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