Medical information Clinical review pending

Genetic Testing

FECH Gene Protoporphyria Erythropoietic Type 1 Genetic Test

Genetic test analyzing the FECH gene to identify mutations associated with Erythropoietic Protoporphyria (EPP), a condition causing severe sun sensitivity and potential liver issues. Confirm with the laboratory before booking.

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 (usually collected in an EDTA tube). Confirm specific requirements with the laboratory before booking.
Results: Confirm with the laboratory before booking.
Preparation: No special preparation is typically required for a blood draw. However, providing a detailed clinical history and family medical history is important. A genetic counseling session prior to testing is recommended to discuss the test's implications and potential results.

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 FECH Gene Protoporphyria Erythropoietic Type 1 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.

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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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+254

Insurer or scheme

Policy / member number (optional)

Used only to process your coverage check — see our Privacy Policy. Verification support is free and does not guarantee your provider will pay.

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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.

✓Severe skin sensitivity to sunlight (photosensitivity)
✓Development of rashes or blisters after sun exposure
✓Family history of protoporphyria or related disorders
✓Unexplained abdominal pain
✓Symptoms suggestive of liver dysfunction
✓Confirmation of suspected Erythropoietic Protoporphyria (EPP)

In plain language

What this test helps you understand

This test identifies mutations in the FECH gene associated with Erythropoietic Protoporphyria (EPP). It aids in confirming a diagnosis, understanding the genetic basis of the condition, and guiding management strategies. Results can also inform family planning and genetic counseling.

The FECH Gene Protoporphyria Erythropoietic Type 1 NGS Genetic DNA Test uses advanced Next Generation Sequencing (NGS) technology to examine the FECH gene. This gene is important for the body's process of making heme. Mutations in the FECH gene can lead to Erythropoietic Protoporphyria (EPP), a condition where porphyrins build up in the body. This buildup can cause significant health problems, particularly severe sensitivity to sunlight and potential liver complications. Understanding your genetic status regarding the FECH gene is important for managing EPP effectively. This test helps identify specific mutations in the FECH gene, aiding in diagnosis and guiding appropriate medical care and lifestyle adjustments. Discussing the results with a healthcare provider or genetic counselor is essential for understanding their implications.

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.

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A simple process

What happens next?

You do not have to navigate the test alone. We help you move from question to next step.

Speak with us

We check the test and answer your questions before collection.

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.

Understand your report

A counselor helps you understand the result and the next steps.

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 typically required for a blood draw. However, providing a detailed clinical history and family medical history is important. A genetic counseling session prior to testing is recommended to discuss the test's implications and potential results.

SampleBlood sample (usually collected in an EDTA tube). Confirm specific requirements with the laboratory before booking.

MethodologyNext Generation Sequencing (NGS) of the FECH gene.

PrivacyYour sample and report are handled confidentially. Ask the team how your information is stored and shared.

This test specifically analyzes the FECH gene. It may not detect all possible mutations associated with protoporphyria or other conditions with similar symptoms. A negative result does not completely rule out the condition. Interpretation requires clinical correlation. Confirm with the laboratory before booking.

Read your report

What common result terms mean

TermPlain-language meaning

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.

Questions people ask

Frequently asked questions

EPP is a genetic disorder characterized by the accumulation of porphyrins, leading to severe photosensitivity (sun sensitivity), skin problems, and potential liver issues.

The FECH gene provides instructions for making an enzyme involved in heme production. Mutations in this gene are the primary cause of EPP. Testing helps confirm the diagnosis and understand the specific genetic cause.

A blood sample is typically required for this genetic test. Confirm specific requirements with the laboratory before booking.

Turnaround time varies. Confirm the estimated turnaround time with the laboratory before booking.

It is crucial to discuss your results with a healthcare professional or genetic counselor. They can explain the findings, their implications for your health, and recommend appropriate management or further steps.

Insurance coverage varies. Please check with your insurance provider regarding coverage for genetic testing.

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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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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