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Medical information Clinical review pending

Genetic Testing

COL6A3 Gene Bethlem Myopathy Type 1 Genetic Test

Genetic test to identify mutations in the COL6A3 gene associated with Bethlem Myopathy, a rare muscle disorder. Uses Next Generation Sequencing (NGS) technology.

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
No specific fasting is required. 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 COL6A3 Gene Bethlem Myopathy 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.

  • ✓Symptoms of muscle weakness, particularly in the hips and shoulders.
  • ✓Presence of joint contractures (stiffness).
  • ✓Family history of Bethlem Myopathy or related muscle disorders.
  • ✓Progressive muscle deterioration.
  • ✓Diagnosis of a congenital muscular dystrophy.
  • ✓To confirm diagnosis before considering specific therapies.
02

In plain language

What this test helps you understand

This test helps confirm a diagnosis of Bethlem Myopathy, differentiate it from other muscle disorders, and provide information for genetic counseling and family planning.
The COL6A3 Gene Bethlem Myopathy Type 1 NGS Genetic DNA Test is a specialized diagnostic tool used to detect mutations in the COL6A3 gene. This gene provides instructions for making a protein that is part of collagen VI, which is important for the structure and function of connective tissues, including muscle. Mutations in this gene are linked to Bethlem Myopathy, a rare inherited disorder characterized by muscle weakness, joint stiffness (contractures), and sometimes other symptoms. This test utilizes Next Generation Sequencing (NGS) technology for a comprehensive analysis of the COL6A3 gene. Understanding the genetic basis of Bethlem Myopathy can help with diagnosis, management, and 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 →
PreparationNo specific fasting is required. 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) analysis of the COL6A3 gene.
PrivacyYour sample and report are handled confidentially. Ask the team how your information is stored and shared.
This test analyzes the COL6A3 gene specifically. It may not detect mutations in other genes that can cause similar symptoms. Results should be interpreted in the context of clinical findings and family history. 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

Bethlem Myopathy is a rare genetic disorder that affects muscles, causing weakness and joint stiffness (contractures). It is typically inherited.
This test looks for specific changes (mutations) in the COL6A3 gene, which are known to cause Bethlem Myopathy.
Individuals experiencing symptoms like muscle weakness and joint contractures, especially with a family history of similar conditions, may be advised to take this test.
A healthcare professional, often a genetic counselor, will interpret the results in the context of your medical history and symptoms.
Genetic counseling is recommended before and after testing to discuss the implications of the results. Confirm availability with the laboratory.
A blood sample, extracted DNA, or a blood spot on an FTA card is required. Confirm specific requirements with the laboratory.
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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