Skip to main content
Medical information Clinical review pending

Genetic Testing

HEXB Gene GM2gangliosidosis Type 2 Genetic Test

This genetic test identifies mutations in the HEXB gene, which cause GM2 gangliosidosis type 2, a rare metabolic disorder. Early diagnosis helps with management and treatment.

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
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 this test. However, 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 HEXB Gene GM2gangliosidosis Type 2 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.

+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.

  • ✓Individuals showing symptoms suggestive of GM2 gangliosidosis type 2, such as developmental delays or neurological problems.
  • ✓Family history of GM2 gangliosidosis or related metabolic disorders.
  • ✓Individuals with unexplained neurological symptoms.
  • ✓Prenatal diagnosis if there is a known family history.
  • ✓Carrier screening for individuals with a family history.
02

In plain language

What this test helps you understand

This test helps confirm or rule out a diagnosis of GM2 gangliosidosis type 2, a rare metabolic disorder caused by mutations in the HEXB gene. Early diagnosis is crucial for managing the condition and understanding potential health risks.
The HEXB Gene GM2gangliosidosis Type 2 NGS Genetic DNA Test is a diagnostic procedure used to identify mutations in the HEXB gene. These mutations are responsible for GM2 gangliosidosis type 2, a rare inherited metabolic disorder affecting the nervous system. This test uses Next Generation Sequencing (NGS) technology for accurate detection of genetic changes.

This test specifically looks for changes in the HEXB gene. Identifying these mutations can confirm a diagnosis of GM2 gangliosidosis type 2, allowing for early intervention and appropriate medical care.

Understanding your results is important. Our medical professionals can help interpret the findings, which may indicate the presence or absence of mutations in the HEXB gene. This information can guide treatment decisions and health management strategies. Confirm with the laboratory before booking.
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 special preparation is typically required for this test. However, confirm with the laboratory before booking.
SampleBlood sample (usually collected in an EDTA tube). Confirm specific requirements with the laboratory before booking.
MethodologyNext Generation Sequencing (NGS) of the HEXB gene.
PrivacyYour sample and report are handled confidentially. Ask the team how your information is stored and shared.
This test detects mutations in the HEXB gene but may not identify all possible mutations. A negative result does not completely rule out GM2 gangliosidosis type 2. Genetic counseling is recommended to understand the test results fully.
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

GM2 gangliosidosis type 2 is a rare, inherited metabolic disorder that affects the nervous system. It is caused by mutations in the HEXB gene.
Testing is recommended for individuals with symptoms suggestive of the disorder, those with a family history, or for prenatal diagnosis in high-risk cases.
The test is performed on a blood sample using Next Generation Sequencing (NGS) technology to analyze the HEXB gene.
Confirm with the laboratory before booking.
Results indicate whether specific mutations in the HEXB gene were found. A positive result confirms the diagnosis. Discuss the results with your doctor or a genetic counselor.
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