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Medical information Clinical review pending

Genetic Testing

Alpha1 Antitrypsin AAT Phenotype Test

The Alpha1 Antitrypsin (AAT) Phenotype Test helps identify genetic variations that can lead to lung and liver disease. It measures the levels and types of AAT protein in your blood.

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 (0.5 mL minimum) serum from 1 Red Top tube (No Additive). Do not use SST gel barrier tubes.
Results
Sample by 7th of the month; Report after 2-3 weeks. Confirm with the laboratory before booking.
Preparation
A duly filled Test Send Out Consent Form (Form 35) is mandatory. Confirm with the laboratory before booking.
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 Alpha1 Antitrypsin AAT Phenotype 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.

  • ✓Shortness of breath
  • ✓Chronic cough
  • ✓Unexplained liver disease
  • ✓Family history of lung disease
  • ✓Family history of liver disease
  • ✓Diagnosis of emphysema
  • ✓Diagnosis of liver cirrhosis
02

In plain language

What this test helps you understand

Identifies genetic deficiencies in Alpha1 Antitrypsin (AAT), which can predispose individuals to lung diseases like emphysema and liver diseases like cirrhosis. Helps guide diagnosis and management.
The Alpha1 Antitrypsin (AAT) Phenotype Test is a diagnostic tool used to measure the levels and types of Alpha1 Antitrypsin (AAT) in the blood. AAT is a protein produced by the liver that helps protect the lungs and other organs from damage. This test is important for identifying genetic disorders that can increase the risk of lung and liver diseases.

This test detects the presence and levels of different AAT phenotypes in the bloodstream. Analyzing the AAT protein helps healthcare professionals determine if a deficiency exists, which may predispose individuals to conditions like emphysema or liver cirrhosis.

This test is recommended for individuals experiencing symptoms such as shortness of breath, chronic cough, or unexplained liver disease. It is also advised for those with a family history of lung or liver issues. Early detection can guide appropriate treatment and management.
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 →
PreparationA duly filled Test Send Out Consent Form (Form 35) is mandatory. Confirm with the laboratory before booking.
Sample2 mL (0.5 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 identifies AAT phenotypes but does not provide information on all possible genetic mutations. 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

Alpha1 Antitrypsin (AAT) is a protein produced by the liver that protects the lungs and other organs from damage.
This test helps identify AAT deficiency, a genetic condition that can lead to serious lung and liver diseases.
Individuals with symptoms like shortness of breath, chronic cough, liver disease, or a family history of these conditions should consider this test.
The test requires a blood sample (serum) to measure AAT levels and types.
Your doctor will interpret the results based on your medical history and symptoms. Abnormal results may require further investigation.
You can book the test by calling or WhatsApping +254711564616. Home sample collection is available in major cities.
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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