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Medical information Clinical review pending

Genetic Testing

Biotinidase Activity Quantitative Blood Test

The Biotinidase Activity Quantitative Blood Test measures biotinidase enzyme activity to detect biotinidase deficiency, a metabolic disorder. Early diagnosis is crucial for managing this condition, especially in children.

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 (1 mL minimum) serum from 1 SST tube or 2 mL (1 mL minimum) plasma from 1 Green Top (Sodium Heparin) tube.
Results
Confirm with the laboratory before booking.
Preparation
No special preparation is required for this test.
Test priceKSh 10,400

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 Biotinidase Activity Quantitative Blood 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.

  • ✓Newborn screening follow-up
  • ✓Symptoms suggestive of biotinidase deficiency (e.g., seizures, developmental delay, skin rash, hair loss)
  • ✓Family history of biotinidase deficiency
  • ✓Metabolic disorder evaluation in children
02

In plain language

What this test helps you understand

This test helps diagnose biotinidase deficiency, an inherited metabolic disorder. Early detection allows for timely intervention and management to prevent severe neurological and dermatological complications associated with untreated biotinidase deficiency.
The Biotinidase Activity Quantitative Blood Test is a vital diagnostic tool used to measure the activity of the enzyme biotinidase in the blood. Biotinidase plays a crucial role in the metabolism of biotin, a B-vitamin essential for various bodily functions, including energy production and fatty acid synthesis. Deficiency in this enzyme can lead to serious health complications, making early detection imperative. This test quantitatively measures the activity level of biotinidase in the blood serum or plasma. A low level of biotinidase indicates a deficiency that can result in metabolic disorders, particularly in newborns and children. Results from the Biotinidase Activity Quantitative Blood Test will indicate whether the enzyme activity is within the normal range. If results show a deficiency, further testing and consultation with a pediatrician or genetic specialist will be recommended to discuss treatment options.
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 special preparation is required for this test.
Sample2 mL (1 mL minimum) serum from 1 SST tube or 2 mL (1 mL minimum) plasma from 1 Green Top (Sodium Heparin) tube.
MethodologyQuantitative enzyme activity assay.
PrivacyYour sample and report are handled confidentially. Ask the team how your information is stored and shared.
This test measures the activity of the biotinidase enzyme. Results should be interpreted in conjunction with clinical findings and other relevant laboratory tests. 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

Biotinidase deficiency is an inherited metabolic disorder where the body cannot properly recycle biotin, a B vitamin. This can lead to serious health problems if not treated early.
Early detection allows for prompt treatment with biotin supplementation, which can prevent severe neurological damage, developmental delays, and other complications.
Symptoms can include seizures, developmental delays, skin rashes, hair loss, hearing loss, and breathing problems. However, some individuals may have mild or no symptoms.
Yes, this test is often used as part of newborn screening programs or as a follow-up test if screening results are inconclusive or concerning.
The test requires a blood sample, which is then analyzed in the laboratory to measure the activity level of the biotinidase enzyme.
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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