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Medical information Clinical review pending

Genetic Testing

HEXA Gene TaySachs Disease Genetic Test

The HEXA Gene TaySachs Disease NGS Genetic DNA Test identifies genetic mutations linked to Tay-Sachs disease, a severe inherited metabolic disorder. This test helps determine carrier status and informs reproductive choices, particularly for families with a history of the condition.

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) or Saliva sample (collection kit provided). Confirm with the laboratory before booking.
Results
Confirm with the laboratory before booking.
Preparation
No specific fasting is required. Inform the laboratory of any relevant family medical history. A consultation with a healthcare provider or genetic counselor prior to testing is recommended.
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 HEXA Gene TaySachs Disease 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.

  • ✓Family history of Tay-Sachs disease
  • ✓Planning a family and seeking carrier status
  • ✓Individuals exhibiting symptoms suggestive of Tay-Sachs disease
  • ✓Individuals belonging to high-risk ethnic groups (e.g., Ashkenazi Jews)
  • ✓Prenatal diagnosis (requires confirmation with the laboratory)
02

In plain language

What this test helps you understand

Identifies mutations in the HEXA gene associated with Tay-Sachs disease. Helps determine carrier status. Informs family planning and reproductive choices. Aids in diagnosis for individuals with symptoms.
The HEXA Gene TaySachs Disease NGS Genetic DNA Test is a diagnostic tool used to identify genetic mutations associated with Tay-Sachs disease. Tay-Sachs is a serious inherited metabolic disorder resulting from a deficiency in the HEXA gene, leading to the buildup of harmful substances in the brain and nervous system. Early detection through this test provides valuable information for families, enabling informed healthcare decisions. This test utilizes Next Generation Sequencing (NGS) technology for a comprehensive analysis of the HEXA gene, ensuring accurate detection of mutations. It is recommended for individuals with a family history of Tay-Sachs disease, those planning a family who wish to understand their carrier status, individuals showing symptoms consistent with the disease, and those belonging to high-risk ethnic groups, such as Ashkenazi Jews. Benefits include early identification of carrier status for family planning, access to genetic counseling, and peace of mind regarding genetic health. Results are typically available within 3 to 4 weeks. Consultation with a healthcare professional is essential for interpreting the results.
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 fasting is required. Inform the laboratory of any relevant family medical history. A consultation with a healthcare provider or genetic counselor prior to testing is recommended.
SampleBlood sample (EDTA tube) or Saliva sample (collection kit provided). Confirm with the laboratory before booking.
MethodologyNext Generation Sequencing (NGS) analysis of the HEXA gene.
PrivacyYour sample and report are handled confidentially. Ask the team how your information is stored and shared.
This test analyzes specific mutations in the HEXA gene. It may not detect all possible mutations. A negative result does not completely rule out the possibility of Tay-Sachs disease. Results should be interpreted in conjunction with clinical findings and family history.
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

Tay-Sachs disease is a rare, inherited disorder that progressively destroys nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord. It is caused by a deficiency of the HEXA gene.
Testing is recommended for individuals with a family history of Tay-Sachs, those planning a family (especially if belonging to high-risk groups like Ashkenazi Jews), and individuals with symptoms suggestive of the disease.
This test detects mutations in the HEXA gene that are known to cause Tay-Sachs disease using Next Generation Sequencing (NGS) technology.
Results should be interpreted by a healthcare professional or genetic counselor, considering your personal and family medical history.
Discuss your results with your doctor or a genetic counselor. They can help you understand the implications for your health and family planning.
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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