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Medical information Clinical review pending

Genetic Testing

Bcs1l Gene Leigh Syndrome Genetic Test

Genetic test using Next Generation Sequencing (NGS) to detect mutations in the BCS1L gene, associated with Leigh syndrome. Helps in diagnosing this severe neurological disorder.

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 (EDTA tube) or extracted DNA. Confirm specific requirements with the laboratory before booking.
Results
Confirm with the laboratory before booking.
Preparation
No special preparation is typically required for a blood draw. 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 Bcs1l Gene Leigh Syndrome 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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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 Leigh syndrome based on clinical symptoms
  • ✓Developmental delay or regression
  • ✓Neurological symptoms such as hypotonia, ataxia, or seizures
  • ✓Family history of Leigh syndrome or related mitochondrial disorders
  • ✓Confirmation of diagnosis in individuals with compatible clinical features
02

In plain language

What this test helps you understand

This test helps identify mutations in the BCS1L gene, which are a known cause of Leigh syndrome. Early diagnosis can inform prognosis, management strategies, and genetic counseling for affected individuals and their families.
The BCS1L Gene Leigh Syndrome NGS Genetic DNA Test is a diagnostic tool used to identify genetic mutations linked to Leigh syndrome, a serious neurological condition. This test uses advanced Next Generation Sequencing (NGS) technology to analyze the BCS1L gene, which plays a key role in mitochondrial function and energy production within the brain. Understanding genetic factors is important for managing and treating this condition effectively.

This test specifically looks for changes (mutations) in the BCS1L gene that can cause Leigh syndrome. By examining a blood sample or extracted DNA, the test provides valuable information about the genetic basis of neurological symptoms, helping healthcare providers develop appropriate care plans.

Individuals experiencing symptoms like developmental delays or neurological problems, or those with a family history of Leigh syndrome, may benefit from this test.

Key benefits include early diagnosis, informed treatment decisions, guidance for family planning, and understanding the risk of passing the condition to children.

Results will be provided with support from our genetic counseling team to help interpret the findings and discuss their implications. A positive result suggests a mutation potentially causing Leigh syndrome, while a negative result does not completely rule out the condition.

For booking or inquiries, please contact us at +254711564616. We offer services across Kenya, including home sample collection in major cities.
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. Confirm with the laboratory before booking.
SampleBlood sample (EDTA tube) or extracted DNA. Confirm specific requirements with the laboratory before booking.
MethodologyNext Generation Sequencing (NGS) targeting the BCS1L gene.
PrivacyYour sample and report are handled confidentially. Ask the team how your information is stored and shared.
This test analyzes the BCS1L gene specifically. Leigh syndrome can be caused by mutations in other genes. A negative result does not rule out Leigh syndrome or other genetic conditions. The test may detect variants of uncertain significance (VUS), requiring further investigation.
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

Leigh syndrome is a severe neurological disorder that usually becomes apparent in the first year of life. It affects the central nervous system and can cause progressive loss of mental and movement abilities.
Individuals with symptoms suggestive of Leigh syndrome, such as developmental delays, neurological problems, or those with a family history of the condition, should discuss testing with their doctor.
A positive result indicates that a mutation in the BCS1L gene associated with Leigh syndrome has been identified. This information can help confirm a diagnosis and guide management.
A negative result means no mutations associated with Leigh syndrome were found in the BCS1L gene. However, Leigh syndrome can be caused by other genes, so a negative result does not completely rule out the condition.
Yes, our genetic counseling team is available to help interpret test results and discuss their implications for you and your 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.

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