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Medical information Clinical review pending

Genetic Testing

KIT Gene Gastrointestinal Stromal Tumor Familial Genetic Test

Genetic test to identify mutations in the KIT gene associated with an increased risk of developing gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GISTs), particularly in families with a history of the condition.

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 (EDTA tube), extracted DNA, or one drop of blood on an FTA card.
Results
Confirm with the laboratory before booking.
Preparation
No specific patient preparation is required for a blood draw. Confirm with the laboratory regarding specific requirements for DNA or FTA card samples. A genetic counseling session is recommended prior to testing.
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 KIT Gene Gastrointestinal Stromal Tumor Familial 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.

  • ✓Family history of gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GISTs).
  • ✓Personal history of GISTs.
  • ✓Individuals seeking to understand their genetic predisposition to GISTs.
  • ✓Assessing risk in individuals with multiple endocrine neoplasia type 1 (MEN1) syndrome.
  • ✓Guiding surveillance and management strategies for at-risk individuals.
02

In plain language

What this test helps you understand

Identifies specific mutations in the KIT gene linked to familial gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GISTs). This information can help assess an individual's risk, guide surveillance strategies, and potentially inform treatment options.
The KIT Gene Gastrointestinal Stromal Tumor Familial NGS Genetic DNA Test is an advanced genetic analysis designed to detect mutations in the KIT gene. These mutations can increase an individual's risk of developing gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GISTs), which are tumors that occur in the digestive tract. This test uses Next-Generation Sequencing (NGS) technology for accurate detection. Understanding the genetic basis of GISTs is important for managing the condition and making informed healthcare decisions. This test is particularly relevant for individuals with a family history of GISTs. A genetic counseling session is recommended before testing to discuss the implications and family history.
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 for a blood draw. Confirm with the laboratory regarding specific requirements for DNA or FTA card samples. A genetic counseling session is recommended prior to testing.
SampleBlood sample (EDTA tube), extracted DNA, or one drop of blood on an FTA card.
MethodologyNext-Generation Sequencing (NGS) is used to analyze the KIT gene for specific mutations associated with familial GISTs.
PrivacyYour sample and report are handled confidentially. Ask the team how your information is stored and shared.
This test specifically analyzes the KIT gene. It does not detect mutations in other genes associated with GISTs or other types of cancer. A negative result does not completely rule out the possibility of developing GISTs. Results should be interpreted in conjunction with clinical findings and family history.
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

GIST stands for Gastrointestinal Stromal Tumor. These are relatively rare tumors that start in specialized cells in the wall of the digestive tract.
Mutations in the KIT gene are known to increase the risk of developing GISTs, particularly in families where the condition runs. Identifying these mutations helps in understanding risk and planning management.
Individuals with a family history of GISTs, or those diagnosed with GISTs, especially at a young age, should consider this test. Genetic counseling is recommended to determine suitability.
A blood sample, extracted DNA, or a single drop of blood on an FTA card is required for the test.
Confirm with the laboratory before booking.
Results should be discussed with a healthcare provider, preferably a genetic counselor or oncologist, to understand their implications for your health and family.
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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