Skip to main content
Medical information Clinical review pending

Genetic Testing

ALDH18A1 Gene Cutis Laxa Type 3A Autosomal Recessive Genetic Test

Genetic test for mutations in the ALDH18A1 gene associated with Cutis Laxa Type 3A, a rare skin disorder. Uses Next Generation Sequencing (NGS) technology.

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.

Ask a question
Counselor guidance included Confidential handling Kenya-wide coordination

At a glance

Plan your test

Sample
A blood sample is required for this test. Confirm with the laboratory before booking.
Results
Confirm with the laboratory before booking.
Preparation
No special preparation is typically required for a blood draw. However, confirm with the laboratory before booking.
Test priceKSh 40,000

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 ALDH18A1 Gene Cutis Laxa Type 3A Autosomal Recessive Genetic 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.

+254

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.

  • ✓Individuals with clinical features suggestive of Cutis Laxa Type 3A (e.g., loose, sagging skin, joint hypermobility).
  • ✓Family history of Cutis Laxa or related connective tissue disorders.
  • ✓Confirmation of diagnosis in suspected cases.
  • ✓Genetic counseling for individuals or families affected by Cutis Laxa.
  • ✓Prenatal or preimplantation genetic diagnosis (requires consultation).
02

In plain language

What this test helps you understand

This test helps confirm a diagnosis of Cutis Laxa Type 3A, particularly in individuals with characteristic symptoms and a family history suggestive of the condition. Identifying the specific genetic mutation can aid in understanding the prognosis and potential complications, and inform genetic counseling for affected individuals and their families regarding recurrence risks.
The ALDH18A1 Gene Cutis Laxa Type 3A Autosomal Recessive NGS Genetic DNA Test is a specialized genetic analysis used to help diagnose Cutis Laxa Type 3A, a rare connective tissue disorder affecting the skin and other tissues. This condition is inherited in an autosomal recessive pattern, meaning an individual must inherit two copies of a mutated gene, one from each parent, to be affected. This test identifies specific mutations within the ALDH18A1 gene that are known to cause this type of Cutis Laxa. Understanding the genetic basis of the condition can be crucial for diagnosis, management, and genetic counseling. The test utilizes advanced Next Generation Sequencing (NGS) technology for accurate detection of genetic variations.
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 typically required for a blood draw. However, confirm with the laboratory before booking.
SampleA blood sample is required for this test. Confirm with the laboratory before booking.
MethodologyNext Generation Sequencing (NGS) is used to analyze the ALDH18A1 gene for specific mutations.
PrivacyYour sample and report are handled confidentially. Ask the team how your information is stored and shared.
This test specifically analyzes the ALDH18A1 gene. It may not detect mutations in other genes that can cause similar symptoms. A negative result does not completely rule out Cutis Laxa if clinical suspicion remains high. 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

Cutis Laxa Type 3A is a rare genetic disorder affecting connective tissue, characterized primarily by loose, sagging skin. It is caused by mutations in the ALDH18A1 gene.
Individuals showing symptoms like loose skin or joint hypermobility, or those with a family history of Cutis Laxa, should consider this test.
The test uses advanced NGS technology for high accuracy in detecting mutations within the ALDH18A1 gene. However, it may not detect all possible mutations.
Confirm with the laboratory before booking.
A genetic counselor can help you understand your results and discuss their implications for your health and family.
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.

Keep exploring

Related tests

View all tests →
Chat on WhatsApp