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Medical information Clinical review pending

Genetic Testing

DSP Gene Cardiomyopathy Dilated with Woolly Hair and Keratoderma Genetic Test

Genetic test for mutations in the DSP gene associated with dilated cardiomyopathy, woolly hair, and keratoderma. Helps identify genetic risk for serious heart conditions.

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 the implications and create a family history chart (pedigree). 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 DSP Gene Cardiomyopathy Dilated with Woolly Hair and Keratoderma 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 a personal or family history of dilated cardiomyopathy.
  • ✓Individuals presenting with symptoms like unexplained heart failure or irregular heart rhythms.
  • ✓Individuals with woolly hair and keratoderma.
  • ✓Patients seeking genetic counseling for cardiovascular risk assessment.
  • ✓Family members of individuals known to have DSP gene mutations.
02

In plain language

What this test helps you understand

This test helps identify individuals with mutations in the DSP gene, which are associated with dilated cardiomyopathy, woolly hair, and keratoderma. Identifying these mutations can aid in diagnosis, risk assessment for family members, and potentially guide management strategies for cardiovascular health.
The DSP Gene Cardiomyopathy Dilated with Woolly Hair and Keratoderma NGS Genetic DNA Test is a specialized genetic analysis used to help diagnose certain cardiovascular disorders. This test looks for specific changes (mutations) in the DSP gene. These changes can be linked to conditions like dilated cardiomyopathy (a type of heart muscle disease), woolly hair, and keratoderma (thickened skin on palms and soles). Using Next-Generation Sequencing (NGS) technology, the test examines your DNA to identify these potential mutations. Understanding your genetic makeup related to the DSP gene can be important for managing your health and assessing potential risks for heart conditions. This test is particularly relevant for individuals with specific symptoms or a family history of related disorders.
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 the implications and create a family history chart (pedigree). 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) of the DSP gene.
PrivacyYour sample and report are handled confidentially. Ask the team how your information is stored and shared.
This test specifically analyzes the DSP gene. It does not detect mutations in other genes that may cause similar conditions. A negative result does not completely rule out a genetic predisposition to cardiomyopathy. 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 DSP gene provides instructions for making a protein called desmoplakin, which is important for the structure and function of heart muscle cells and skin cells.
Mutations in the DSP gene are primarily associated with dilated cardiomyopathy, woolly hair, and keratoderma.
Individuals with symptoms like heart failure, irregular heart rhythms, woolly hair, or keratoderma, or those with a family history of these conditions, may be candidates for this test.
Results should be discussed with a healthcare provider or genetic counselor who can explain the findings in the context of your personal and family medical history.
A blood sample, extracted DNA, or a single drop of blood on a special card (FTA card) 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.

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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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