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Medical information Clinical review pending

Genetic Testing

IMD Panel Extended Test

The IMD Panel Extended Test helps identify inborn errors of metabolism (IEM) by analyzing amino acids, organic acids, and acylcarnitines. Recommended for pediatric patients with potential metabolic disorders.

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
1 drop of heel/finger prick blood on 3 spots of filter paper (available from LPL). 2 mL serum (1 mL minimum) from an SST tube. 2 mL plasma (1 mL minimum) from a Green Top (Sodium Heparin) tube. 15 mL random urine (10 mL minimum) in a sterile screw-capped container without preservative.
Results
Results are typically available three days after sample collection. Confirm with the laboratory before booking.
Preparation
No specific patient preparation is required. Clinical details and drug history must accompany the sample.
Test priceKSh 26,000

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 IMD Panel Extended 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.

  • ✓Pediatric patients with symptoms suggestive of metabolic disorders (e.g., developmental delays, failure to thrive).
  • ✓Individuals with a family history of metabolic conditions.
  • ✓Patients with abnormal newborn screening results.
  • ✓Unexplained illness or seizures in infants or children.
  • ✓Assessment of metabolic function in specific clinical scenarios.
02

In plain language

What this test helps you understand

Detects inborn errors of metabolism (IEM) by analyzing amino acids, organic acids, and acylcarnitines. Aids in the diagnosis and management of metabolic disorders, particularly in pediatric populations.
The IMD Panel Extended Test is a specialized diagnostic tool used to identify inborn errors of metabolism (IEM). IEMs are genetic conditions that interfere with the body's ability to process food into energy. Early diagnosis through this test is vital for effective management and treatment, especially in children.

This test measures key metabolic components, including amino acids, organic acids in urine, acylcarnitines, and biotinidase activity. It provides a comprehensive assessment of metabolic function.

This test is particularly useful for pediatric patients presenting with symptoms like developmental delays, failure to thrive, or unexplained illnesses. It is also recommended for individuals with a family history of metabolic disorders or those with concerning newborn screening results.

Early detection allows for timely intervention, accurate diagnosis, and guidance for appropriate nutritional and medical management. Discuss your results with your healthcare provider to understand their implications and plan next steps.
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 patient preparation is required. Clinical details and drug history must accompany the sample.
Sample1 drop of heel/finger prick blood on 3 spots of filter paper (available from LPL). 2 mL serum (1 mL minimum) from an SST tube. 2 mL plasma (1 mL minimum) from a Green Top (Sodium Heparin) tube. 15 mL random urine (10 mL minimum) in a sterile screw-capped container without preservative.
MethodologyThe test utilizes methods to measure amino acids, organic acids, acylcarnitines, and biotinidase activity from the provided samples. Confirm with the laboratory before booking.
PrivacyYour sample and report are handled confidentially. Ask the team how your information is stored and shared.
This test detects a range of IEMs but may not identify all possible metabolic disorders. Results should be interpreted in conjunction with clinical findings and other diagnostic tests. 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

IEMs are genetic disorders that affect the body's ability to convert food into energy, often leading to a buildup of toxic substances.
It's primarily recommended for pediatric patients showing symptoms of metabolic disorders, those with a family history, or abnormal newborn screening results.
We require blood (heel/finger prick, serum, plasma) and a urine sample. Specific collection details are provided upon booking.
The turnaround time is typically three days after the sample is received at the laboratory. Confirm with the laboratory before booking.
It's essential to discuss the results with your healthcare provider. They will interpret the findings in the context of your clinical situation and recommend appropriate next steps.
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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