Skip to main content
Medical information Clinical review pending

Genetic Testing

DRPLA Dentatorubralpallidoluysian Atrophy Gene Analysis Test

Genetic test for Dentatorubralpallidoluysian Atrophy (DRPLA), analyzing the ATN1 gene for CAG repeat expansions. Helps diagnose this progressive neurologic disorder.

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.

Ask a question
Counselor guidance included Confidential handling Kenya-wide coordination

At a glance

Plan your test

Sample
4 mL (2 mL minimum) of whole blood collected in a Lavender Top (EDTA) tube.
Results
Confirm with the laboratory before booking.
Preparation
No specific patient preparation is required. Confirm with the laboratory before booking.
Test priceKSh 15,000

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 DRPLA Dentatorubralpallidoluysian Atrophy Gene Analysis 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.

+254

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 neurological symptoms (tremors, ataxia, cognitive changes)
  • ✓Family history of DRPLA or similar neurological disorders
  • ✓Referral by a neurologist for suspected hereditary neurological conditions
  • ✓Genetic counseling for individuals concerned about DRPLA risk
02

In plain language

What this test helps you understand

To detect CAG repeat expansions in the ATN1 gene associated with Dentatorubralpallidoluysian Atrophy (DRPLA), aiding in diagnosis and risk assessment.
The DRPLA Dentatorubralpallidoluysian Atrophy Gene Analysis Test is a specialized genetic examination used to identify CAG repeat expansions within the ATN1 gene. These expansions are linked to Dentatorubralpallidoluysian Atrophy (DRPLA), a progressive neurological condition affecting movement, cognition, and psychiatric state. This test provides crucial information for diagnosis and management.

This test specifically measures the number of CAG repeats in the ATN1 gene. An elevated repeat count indicates an increased risk of developing DRPLA, potentially enabling early intervention and tailored management plans.

Individuals experiencing unexplained neurological symptoms like tremors, ataxia, or cognitive changes, those with a family history of DRPLA or similar conditions, or patients referred by neurologists for suspected hereditary neurological disorders may benefit from this test.

Taking this test offers several advantages, including aiding in accurate diagnosis, providing valuable information for family planning regarding inheritance risk, and enabling healthcare providers to develop informed management strategies based on genetic findings.

Results will show the number of CAG repeats in the ATN1 gene. A higher number may suggest a predisposition to DRPLA. Discussing these results with a healthcare provider is essential to understand their implications and determine appropriate next steps.
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 patient preparation is required. Confirm with the laboratory before booking.
Sample4 mL (2 mL minimum) of whole blood collected in a Lavender Top (EDTA) tube.
MethodologyConfirm with the laboratory before booking.
PrivacyYour sample and report are handled confidentially. Ask the team how your information is stored and shared.
This test only detects CAG repeat expansions in the ATN1 gene. It does not detect other genetic causes of similar symptoms. 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

DRPLA (Dentatorubralpallidoluysian Atrophy) is a rare, inherited neurological disorder characterized by progressive movement problems, cognitive decline, and psychiatric symptoms.
The test measures the number of CAG repeats in the ATN1 gene. An increased number of repeats is associated with DRPLA.
Individuals with symptoms suggestive of DRPLA, a family history of the condition, or those referred by a neurologist may be candidates for this test.
Results indicate the number of CAG repeats found. A higher number may suggest an increased risk for DRPLA. Discuss results with your doctor.
A blood sample collected in a specific tube (Lavender Top/EDTA) is required.
Turnaround time varies. Please confirm the current estimated time with the laboratory before booking.
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.

Keep exploring

Related tests

View all tests →
Chat on WhatsApp