Medical information Clinical review pending

Genetic Testing

COA8 Gene Mitochondrial Complex IV Deficiency Genetic Test

Genetic test for mutations in the COA8 gene, associated with mitochondrial complex IV deficiency. Helps diagnose mitochondrial disorders, especially those with neurological symptoms.

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: A clinical history of the patient is required. Genetic counseling session recommended to draw a pedigree chart of affected family members.

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 COA8 Gene Mitochondrial Complex IV Deficiency 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.

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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 with suspected mitochondrial disease
✓Patients presenting with neurological symptoms
✓Individuals with muscle weakness or developmental delays
✓Family history of mitochondrial disorders
✓Confirmation of suspected COA8-related deficiency

In plain language

What this test helps you understand

Identifies mutations in the COA8 gene associated with mitochondrial complex IV deficiency, aiding in the diagnosis of mitochondrial disorders.

The COA8 Gene Mitochondrial Complex IV Deficiency NGS Genetic DNA Test is a diagnostic tool used to identify genetic mutations linked to mitochondrial disorders. Mitochondrial complex IV deficiency is a condition affecting energy production in cells, potentially causing various neurological and systemic symptoms. This test uses Next Generation Sequencing (NGS) technology to analyze the COA8 gene, which is important for mitochondrial function. It examines genetic material from a blood sample or extracted DNA to detect alterations that may impair mitochondrial function. This test is beneficial for individuals experiencing symptoms like neurological disorders, muscle weakness, developmental delays, or seizures. It is also recommended for those with a family history of mitochondrial disorders. Early diagnosis can lead to informed treatment decisions, genetic counseling, and personalized management plans. Results are provided in a comprehensive report, which will be interpreted by a healthcare professional.

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 →

PreparationA clinical history of the patient is required. Genetic counseling session recommended to draw a pedigree chart of affected family members.

SampleBlood sample (EDTA tube) or extracted DNA. Confirm specific requirements with the laboratory before booking.

MethodologyNext Generation Sequencing (NGS) of the COA8 gene.

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

This test specifically analyzes the COA8 gene. It may not detect mutations in other genes associated with mitochondrial complex IV deficiency or other mitochondrial disorders. Results interpretation requires clinical correlation.

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

It is a condition where the fourth complex in the mitochondrial respiratory chain does not function properly, leading to reduced energy production in cells. This can affect various organs, especially the brain and muscles.

Individuals with symptoms suggestive of mitochondrial disease, such as neurological problems, muscle weakness, or developmental delays, especially if there is a family history of similar conditions.

The test involves analyzing a sample of your blood or extracted DNA to look for specific changes (mutations) in the COA8 gene.

Results are interpreted by a healthcare professional in the context of your clinical history and family history. Genetic counseling is often recommended to help understand the results.

Insurance coverage varies. Please check with your insurance provider regarding coverage for genetic testing.

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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