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Medical information Clinical review pending

Genetic Testing

HR Gene Hypotrichosis Type 4 Genetic Test

Genetic test using Next-Generation Sequencing (NGS) to identify mutations in the HR gene associated with hypotrichosis type 4, a condition causing sparse hair growth. Helps understand genetic factors influencing hair loss.

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, Extracted DNA, or One drop of blood on an FTA card.
Results
Confirm with the laboratory before booking.
Preparation
A clinical history of the patient is required. A genetic counseling session to draw a pedigree chart of affected family members is recommended before testing. 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 HR Gene Hypotrichosis Type 4 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 experiencing significant hair thinning or loss.
  • ✓Patients with patchy hair loss.
  • ✓Individuals with hair that grows slowly or not at all.
  • ✓Family history of hypotrichosis or related hair disorders.
  • ✓Diagnosis confirmation for suspected hypotrichosis type 4.
  • ✓Genetic counseling for families with affected members.
02

In plain language

What this test helps you understand

This test helps identify specific genetic mutations in the HR gene that cause hypotrichosis type 4. It can confirm a diagnosis in individuals with symptoms suggestive of the condition and provide information for genetic counseling within families.
The HR Gene Hypotrichosis Type 4 NGS Genetic DNA Test is a diagnostic tool used to identify genetic mutations linked to hypotrichosis type 4, a condition characterized by reduced or sparse hair growth. This test employs Next-Generation Sequencing (NGS) technology for accurate analysis of the HR gene. It examines genetic material from a provided sample to detect specific mutations associated with this type of hair disorder. Understanding the genetic basis of hair loss can provide valuable insights for diagnosis and management. This test is particularly relevant for individuals experiencing significant hair thinning, patchy hair loss, or slow hair growth, especially if there is a family history of similar conditions. Discussing the results with a healthcare provider or genetic counselor is crucial for interpreting the findings and exploring potential management strategies.
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 clinical history of the patient is required. A genetic counseling session to draw a pedigree chart of affected family members is recommended before testing. Confirm with the laboratory before booking.
SampleBlood sample, Extracted DNA, or One drop of blood on an FTA card.
MethodologyNext-Generation Sequencing (NGS) is used to analyze the HR gene for specific mutations associated with hypotrichosis type 4.
PrivacyYour sample and report are handled confidentially. Ask the team how your information is stored and shared.
This test specifically analyzes the HR gene. Other genes or non-genetic factors can also cause hair loss. The test may not detect all possible mutations within the HR gene. 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

Hypotrichosis type 4 is a genetic condition characterized by sparse hair growth, often affecting the scalp, eyebrows, and eyelashes.
Individuals experiencing unusual hair loss, thinning, or slow growth, particularly those with a family history of similar conditions, may benefit from this test.
The test analyzes a sample of your blood, extracted DNA, or a drop of blood on an FTA card to look for specific mutations in the HR gene.
Results should be discussed with a healthcare provider or genetic counselor to understand their implications for your health and potential management options.
No, this test specifically looks for mutations in the HR gene associated with hypotrichosis type 4. Other causes of hair loss exist.
Confirm 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.

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