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Medical information Clinical review pending

Genetic Testing

COQ8A Gene Spinocerebellar Ataxia Type 9 Autosomal Recessive Genetic Test

Genetic test to identify mutations in the COQ8A gene associated with Spinocerebellar Ataxia Type 9 (SCA9), a progressive neurological disorder affecting balance and coordination.

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
Confirm with the laboratory before booking.
Preparation
A genetic counseling session is recommended prior to testing to discuss family history and the test's implications. 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 COQ8A Gene Spinocerebellar Ataxia Type 9 Autosomal Recessive 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.

  • ✓Individuals with symptoms suggestive of Spinocerebellar Ataxia (SCA), such as loss of balance, coordination problems, or slurred speech.
  • ✓Family history of SCA9 or other hereditary ataxias.
  • ✓Individuals seeking genetic counseling for neurological disorders.
  • ✓Family planning for individuals with a known family history of SCA9.
02

In plain language

What this test helps you understand

This test helps identify individuals carrying mutations in the COQ8A gene associated with Spinocerebellar Ataxia Type 9 (SCA9). It aids in diagnosing the condition, understanding disease risk, and informing family planning and genetic counseling.
The COQ8A Gene Spinocerebellar Ataxia Type 9 Autosomal Recessive NGS Genetic DNA Test is designed to detect mutations in the COQ8A gene. Mutations in this gene are linked to Spinocerebellar Ataxia Type 9 (SCA9), a condition characterized by progressive neurological decline, primarily affecting balance and coordination. Understanding your genetic status regarding SCA9 is important for potential early intervention and management strategies. This test analyzes a DNA sample to identify specific genetic changes associated with the condition, providing valuable information for individuals and 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 genetic counseling session is recommended prior to testing to discuss family history and the test's implications. 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) technology is used to analyze the COQ8A gene.
PrivacyYour sample and report are handled confidentially. Ask the team how your information is stored and shared.
This test specifically analyzes the COQ8A gene. It does not detect mutations in other genes associated with ataxia. A negative result does not completely rule out SCA9 or other neurological 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

SCA9 is a progressive neurological disorder that affects the cerebellum, leading to problems with balance, coordination, and movement.
Individuals experiencing symptoms like loss of balance or coordination, or those with a family history of SCA9 or related neurological disorders, should consider this test.
A positive result indicates the presence of a mutation in the COQ8A gene associated with SCA9. Further discussion with a healthcare provider and genetic counselor is essential.
A negative result means no mutations associated with SCA9 were detected in the COQ8A gene. However, it does not rule out other causes for symptoms.
Yes, genetic counseling before and after the test is strongly recommended to understand the test, its implications, and the results.
A sample can be collected as a blood draw, extracted DNA, or a single drop of blood on a special card (FTA card).
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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