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Medical information Clinical review pending

Genetic Testing

Connexin 26 Mutation Detection Test

Identifies genetic mutations in the GJB2 gene, a common cause of hereditary hearing loss. This test helps diagnose unexplained auditory issues.

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
4 mL (2 mL minimum) whole blood collected in a Lavender top (EDTA) tube. A completed Genomics Clinical Information Requisition Form (Form 20) is required.
Results
Report available in 13 working days if the sample is submitted by 11 am. Confirm with the laboratory before booking.
Preparation
No special preparation is required for this test. Confirm with the laboratory before booking.
Test priceKSh 21,000

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 Connexin 26 Mutation Detection 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.

  • ✓Unexplained hearing loss
  • ✓Family history of hearing loss
  • ✓Delayed speech development in children
  • ✓Referral by physician, neurologist, or ENT specialist
02

In plain language

What this test helps you understand

This test helps identify a genetic cause for hearing loss, particularly non-syndromic hereditary hearing loss. It can aid in diagnosis, management, and family planning for individuals with hearing impairment.
The Connexin 26 Mutation Detection Test is a molecular diagnostic tool used to identify mutations in the GJB2 gene. This gene provides instructions for making the Connexin 26 protein, which is crucial for the proper function of the inner ear. Mutations in this gene are one of the most frequent causes of non-syndromic hereditary hearing loss. Early detection of these mutations can significantly aid in the diagnosis and management of auditory disorders, allowing for timely interventions and support. This test analyzes a sample of whole blood to determine if specific mutations associated with hearing loss are present.
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 required for this test. Confirm with the laboratory before booking.
Sample4 mL (2 mL minimum) whole blood collected in a Lavender top (EDTA) tube. A completed Genomics Clinical Information Requisition Form (Form 20) is required.
MethodologyPolymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) based molecular testing.
PrivacyYour sample and report are handled confidentially. Ask the team how your information is stored and shared.
This test specifically looks for mutations in the GJB2 gene. Hearing loss can have other genetic and non-genetic causes. A negative result does not rule out all causes of hearing loss. 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

The Connexin 26 gene (GJB2) provides instructions for making a protein important for the function of the inner ear. Mutations in this gene are a common cause of hereditary hearing loss.
Individuals with unexplained hearing loss, especially those with a family history of hearing impairment, may benefit from this test. Your doctor can advise if it's appropriate for you.
A positive result indicates that mutations in the Connexin 26 gene were detected, suggesting a genetic link to hearing loss. Discuss the implications with your healthcare provider.
A negative result means that the specific mutations tested for were not found. Hearing loss may still have other causes. Consult your doctor for further evaluation.
The test requires a blood sample collected in a specific type of tube (Lavender top/EDTA). Home sample collection services are available.
You can book the test by calling or WhatsApping +254711564616. We have branches in Nairobi, Mombasa, and Kisumu.
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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