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Medical information Clinical review pending

Genetic Testing

Interleukin 28B rs12979860 rs8099917 Genotyping Qualitative PCR Test

This genetic test analyzes variations in the Interleukin 28B gene (rs12979860 and rs8099917) which may influence response to hepatitis C treatment and risk for liver 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
3 mL (2 mL minimum) whole blood collected in a Lavender Top (EDTA) tube. Sample must be shipped refrigerated. Do not freeze.
Results
Confirm with the laboratory before booking.
Preparation
No special preparation is required for this test.
Test priceKSh 15,000

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 Interleukin 28B rs12979860 rs8099917 Genotyping Qualitative PCR 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.

  • ✓Patients diagnosed with hepatitis C.
  • ✓Individuals considering antiviral treatment for hepatitis C.
  • ✓Patients with other liver disorders.
  • ✓Individuals with a family history of liver disease.
  • ✓Those experiencing symptoms potentially related to liver issues.
02

In plain language

What this test helps you understand

This test helps identify genetic variations in the Interleukin 28B gene that may predict response to hepatitis C antiviral therapy and influence the risk of certain liver conditions.
The Interleukin 28B rs12979860 rs8099917 Genotyping Qualitative PCR Test is a diagnostic tool used to evaluate genetic variations that may influence an individual's response to viral infections, particularly hepatitis C, and other liver disorders. Understanding these genetic markers can help guide treatment decisions and improve patient outcomes. This test specifically detects the presence of genetic polymorphisms in the Interleukin 28B gene, which plays a crucial role in the immune response to viral infections. The results can indicate the likelihood of achieving a sustained virologic response to antiviral therapy. Discuss the results with your healthcare provider to understand their implications for treatment options and disease management.
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 required for this test.
Sample3 mL (2 mL minimum) whole blood collected in a Lavender Top (EDTA) tube. Sample must be shipped refrigerated. Do not freeze.
MethodologyQualitative PCR (Polymerase Chain Reaction) is used to detect the presence or absence of specific genetic variations (polymorphisms) in the Interleukin 28B gene.
PrivacyYour sample and report are handled confidentially. Ask the team how your information is stored and shared.
This test identifies specific genetic variations but does not diagnose disease or guarantee treatment outcomes. Results should be interpreted by a qualified healthcare professional in the context of the patient's overall health.
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

The Interleukin 28B gene plays a role in the body's immune response, particularly against viral infections like hepatitis C.
Certain variations in the Interleukin 28B gene can predict how well a patient might respond to standard antiviral treatments for hepatitis C.
Individuals diagnosed with hepatitis C, those planning treatment, or those with liver disease or a family history of it may benefit from this test.
A healthcare provider will interpret the results, explaining how the genetic variations might influence treatment decisions or disease management.
No special preparation is required for this blood test.
A blood sample is required for this test. We offer home sample collection services.
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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