Medical information Clinical review pending

Genetic Testing

ATXN2 Gene Spinocerebellar Ataxia Type 2 Autosomal Dominant Genetic Test

Genetic test to identify mutations in the ATXN2 gene associated with Spinocerebellar Ataxia Type 2 (SCA2), a neurological disorder affecting coordination and balance.

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 (typically collected in an EDTA tube). Confirm with the laboratory before booking.
Results: Confirm with the laboratory before booking.
Preparation: No special preparation is usually required for this blood test. 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 ATXN2 Gene Spinocerebellar Ataxia Type 2 Autosomal Dominant 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.

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Mobile number *

+254

Insurer or scheme

Policy / member number (optional)

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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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 experiencing progressive loss of coordination or balance.
✓Patients with slurred speech or difficulty swallowing.
✓Individuals with muscle stiffness or weakness.
✓Family history of Spinocerebellar Ataxia Type 2 (SCA2).
✓Diagnosis confirmation in symptomatic individuals.
✓Genetic counseling and family planning purposes.

In plain language

What this test helps you understand

This test helps identify specific genetic mutations in the ATXN2 gene that are known to cause Spinocerebellar Ataxia Type 2 (SCA2). It aids in confirming a diagnosis in individuals presenting with symptoms suggestive of SCA2, particularly when there is a family history of the condition. Identifying the specific mutation can also be relevant for genetic counseling and family planning.

The ATXN2 Gene Spinocerebellar Ataxia Type 2 Autosomal Dominant NGS Genetic DNA Test is a diagnostic tool used to identify genetic mutations linked to spinocerebellar ataxia type 2 (SCA2). SCA2 is a condition that affects the brain and spinal cord, often leading to a progressive loss of coordination and balance. Understanding your genetic status regarding SCA2 can be important for health management and planning. This test uses Next-Generation Sequencing (NGS) technology to analyze the ATXN2 gene for specific mutations. It is designed for individuals experiencing symptoms suggestive of SCA2 or those with a family history of the condition. Early diagnosis can facilitate timely management and access to appropriate support resources. Discussing the results with a healthcare professional, such as a genetic counselor or neurologist, is crucial for understanding the implications and planning next steps.

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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A simple process

What happens next?

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

Speak with us

We check the test and answer your questions before collection.

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.

Understand your report

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

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 usually required for this blood test. However, confirm with the laboratory before booking.

SampleBlood sample (typically collected in an EDTA tube). Confirm with the laboratory before booking.

MethodologyNext-Generation Sequencing (NGS) of the ATXN2 gene.

PrivacyYour sample and report are handled confidentially. Ask the team how your information is stored and shared.

This test analyzes the ATXN2 gene for specific mutations associated with SCA2. It may not detect all possible mutations or other genetic causes of similar symptoms. A negative result does not completely rule out SCA2 or other neurological conditions. Results should be interpreted by a qualified healthcare professional.

Read your report

What common result terms mean

TermPlain-language meaning

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.

Questions people ask

Frequently asked questions

SCA2 is a progressive neurological disorder affecting the brain and spinal cord, leading to problems with coordination, balance, speech, and movement.

Individuals experiencing symptoms like loss of coordination, balance issues, or slurred speech, especially those with a family history of SCA2, should consider this test.

The test involves analyzing a blood sample to look for specific genetic mutations in the ATXN2 gene using Next-Generation Sequencing (NGS).

A healthcare professional, such as a genetic counselor or neurologist, will interpret the results in the context of your medical history and symptoms.

Identifying a mutation associated with SCA2 indicates a predisposition to the condition, but the exact onset and progression can vary. Discuss this with your doctor.

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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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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