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Medical information Clinical review pending

Genetic Testing

CACNA1S Gene Hypokalemic Periodic Paralysis Type 1 Genetic Test

Genetic test for Hypokalemic Periodic Paralysis Type 1 (HypoPP1) caused by mutations in the CACNA1S gene. Uses Next-Generation Sequencing (NGS) to identify genetic variations associated with this 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), extracted DNA, or one drop of blood on an FTA card.
Results
Approximately 3 to 4 weeks. Confirm with the laboratory before booking.
Preparation
A clinical history review and genetic counseling session, including drawing a family pedigree chart, are recommended before testing. 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 CACNA1S Gene Hypokalemic Periodic Paralysis Type 1 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.

  • ✓Recurrent episodes of muscle weakness or paralysis
  • ✓Family history of Hypokalemic Periodic Paralysis
  • ✓Symptoms triggered by exercise, stress, or low potassium
  • ✓Suspected diagnosis of HypoPP1
  • ✓Genetic counseling for affected families
  • ✓Evaluation of neurological disorders involving muscle function
02

In plain language

What this test helps you understand

Confirms diagnosis of Hypokalemic Periodic Paralysis Type 1 (HypoPP1). Identifies specific mutations in the CACNA1S gene. Aids in genetic counseling and family planning for individuals with or at risk for HypoPP1. Can help guide management strategies based on the specific genetic findings.
The CACNA1S Gene Hypokalemic Periodic Paralysis Type 1 NGS Genetic DNA Test is used to help diagnose Hypokalemic Periodic Paralysis Type 1 (HypoPP1), a rare neurological condition characterized by episodes of muscle weakness or paralysis. This test analyzes the CACNA1S gene, which provides instructions for making a protein important for muscle function. Mutations in this gene are a common cause of HypoPP1.

This test utilizes Next-Generation Sequencing (NGS) technology, a highly accurate method for detecting genetic changes. It examines the DNA sequence of the CACNA1S gene to identify specific mutations linked to HypoPP1.

Understanding the genetic basis of HypoPP1 can help confirm a diagnosis, guide treatment decisions, and allow for genetic counseling for affected individuals and their families.
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 clinical history review and genetic counseling session, including drawing a family pedigree chart, are recommended before testing. Confirm with the laboratory before booking.
SampleBlood sample (EDTA tube), extracted DNA, or one drop of blood on an FTA card.
MethodologyNext-Generation Sequencing (NGS) of the CACNA1S gene.
PrivacyYour sample and report are handled confidentially. Ask the team how your information is stored and shared.
This test specifically analyzes the CACNA1S gene. It may not detect mutations in other genes that can cause similar symptoms. A negative result does not completely rule out HypoPP1 or other related conditions. 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

Hypokalemic Periodic Paralysis Type 1 (HypoPP1) is a rare genetic disorder causing episodes of muscle weakness or paralysis, often linked to low potassium levels.
This test looks for specific genetic mutations in the CACNA1S gene that are known to cause HypoPP1.
Individuals experiencing recurrent muscle weakness, especially with a family history of similar symptoms or low potassium during episodes, may be candidates for this test.
A healthcare professional will interpret the results. A positive result indicates a mutation associated with HypoPP1. A negative result requires further clinical evaluation.
Yes, genetic counseling is often recommended before and after testing to understand the implications of the results for the individual and their 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.

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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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