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Medical information Clinical review pending

Genetic Testing

DARS Gene Hypomyelination with Brainstem and Spinal Cord Involvement and Leg Spasticity Genetic Test

Genetic test using Next Generation Sequencing (NGS) to identify mutations in the DARS gene, associated with hypomyelination and neurological disorders like brainstem/spinal cord involvement and leg spasticity.

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 (typically collected in an EDTA tube) or extracted DNA.
Results
Confirm with the laboratory before booking.
Preparation
Confirm with the laboratory before booking. Generally, no special preparation is required, but fasting may be requested. Follow any specific instructions provided by the laboratory or your doctor.
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 DARS Gene Hypomyelination with Brainstem and Spinal Cord Involvement and Leg Spasticity 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 of leg spasticity.
  • ✓Patients presenting with neurological disorders involving the brainstem or spinal cord.
  • ✓Individuals with a family history of hypomyelination or related neurological conditions.
  • ✓Patients where a genetic cause for neurological symptoms is suspected.
02

In plain language

What this test helps you understand

This test helps identify specific genetic mutations in the DARS gene associated with hypomyelination disorders. It can confirm a diagnosis in individuals presenting with relevant neurological symptoms, contributing to accurate patient management and genetic counseling.
The DARS Gene Hypomyelination with Brainstem and Spinal Cord Involvement and Leg Spasticity NGS Genetic DNA Test is a diagnostic tool used to identify genetic mutations linked to specific neurological conditions. This test employs Next Generation Sequencing (NGS) technology for a detailed analysis of the DARS gene. The DARS gene is important for myelination, the process where nerves are coated with a protective layer. This test examines blood or DNA samples to detect alterations in the DARS gene that may cause neurological symptoms, including issues with the brainstem and spinal cord, and leg spasticity. Understanding these genetic factors can aid in diagnosis and management.
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 →
PreparationConfirm with the laboratory before booking. Generally, no special preparation is required, but fasting may be requested. Follow any specific instructions provided by the laboratory or your doctor.
SampleBlood sample (typically collected in an EDTA tube) or extracted DNA.
MethodologyNext Generation Sequencing (NGS) of the DARS gene.
PrivacyYour sample and report are handled confidentially. Ask the team how your information is stored and shared.
This test specifically analyzes the DARS gene. It may not detect mutations in other genes that could cause similar symptoms. A negative result does not completely rule out a genetic cause for the condition. 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 DARS gene provides instructions for making an enzyme essential for protein synthesis within cells, including nerve cells. Mutations in this gene can affect nerve function.
Symptoms can vary but often include developmental delays, muscle weakness, leg spasticity, and neurological issues affecting the brainstem and spinal cord.
This test is specifically for individuals suspected of having a condition related to mutations in the DARS gene, based on clinical evaluation and family history.
It is crucial to discuss your results with your doctor or a genetic counselor. They can explain the findings and their implications for your health and family.
The test identifies genetic mutations associated with specific conditions. While it provides valuable information, it may not predict all future health outcomes. Discuss this with your healthcare provider.
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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