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Medical information Clinical review pending

Genetic Testing

KCNE1 Gene Long QT Syndrome Type 5 Genetic Test

Genetic test to identify mutations in the KCNE1 gene associated with Long QT Syndrome Type 5, a heart condition affecting electrical signaling. Uses Next Generation Sequencing (NGS).

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 (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 blood test. However, confirm with the laboratory for any specific instructions.
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 KCNE1 Gene Long QT Syndrome Type 5 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.

  • ✓Personal or family history of Long QT Syndrome (LQTS).
  • ✓Unexplained fainting (syncope), seizures, or palpitations.
  • ✓History of sudden cardiac death in the family.
  • ✓Diagnosis of other types of Long QT Syndrome.
  • ✓Evaluation of cardiac symptoms suggestive of arrhythmia.
02

In plain language

What this test helps you understand

This test helps identify individuals with mutations in the KCNE1 gene, confirming a diagnosis of Long QT Syndrome Type 5. This information can guide clinical management, including lifestyle modifications, medication choices, and screening for family members.
The KCNE1 Gene Long QT Syndrome Type 5 NGS Genetic DNA Test is a diagnostic tool used to identify genetic mutations linked to Long QT Syndrome (LQTS), specifically Type 5. LQTS is a heart condition that can cause potentially life-threatening irregular heart rhythms (arrhythmias). This test examines the KCNE1 gene, which is important for the heart's electrical activity. Using advanced Next Generation Sequencing (NGS) technology, the test can detect specific mutations that may increase the risk of developing LQTS Type 5. Understanding this genetic risk is crucial for early management and intervention. This test is valuable for individuals with a personal or family history of LQTS or related cardiac events.
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 blood test. However, confirm with the laboratory for any specific instructions.
SampleBlood sample (usually collected in an EDTA tube). Confirm specific requirements with the laboratory before booking.
MethodologyNext Generation Sequencing (NGS) is used to analyze the DNA sequence of the KCNE1 gene.
PrivacyYour sample and report are handled confidentially. Ask the team how your information is stored and shared.
This test only analyzes the KCNE1 gene. Other genes can also cause Long QT Syndrome. A negative result does not completely rule out LQTS. The test may not detect all possible mutations within the KCNE1 gene. Interpretation of results requires clinical correlation.
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

LQTS is a heart condition affecting the heart's electrical system, potentially leading to dangerous irregular heart rhythms.
The KCNE1 gene provides instructions for making a protein that helps regulate the electrical activity in heart cells.
Individuals with symptoms like fainting, palpitations, or a family history of LQTS or sudden cardiac death should discuss this test with their doctor.
A healthcare professional, often a genetic counselor or cardiologist, will interpret the results in the context of your medical history.
No, this test specifically looks for mutations in the KCNE1 gene, associated with LQTS Type 5. Other genes cause different types of LQTS.
Yes, home sample collection services may be available. Please inquire with the laboratory for details and eligibility.
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.

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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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