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Genetic Testing

Leigh Syndrome Mitochondrial Mutation Detection Test

This test helps diagnose Leigh syndrome, a serious neurological disorder, by identifying specific mitochondrial mutations. Early diagnosis can guide management and treatment.

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
4 mL (2 mL minimum) whole blood collected in a lavender top (EDTA) tube.
Results
Results are typically reported by Friday, provided the sample is submitted by Monday 9 am. Confirm with the laboratory before booking.
Preparation
No special preparation is required for the patient.
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 Leigh Syndrome Mitochondrial Mutation Detection 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.

  • ✓Developmental delays or regression
  • ✓Loss of motor skills
  • ✓Seizures
  • ✓Neurological symptoms suggestive of Leigh syndrome
  • ✓Family history of Leigh syndrome or mitochondrial disorders
  • ✓Progressive neurological decline
02

In plain language

What this test helps you understand

Diagnosis of Leigh syndrome, a progressive neurological disorder. Identification of specific mitochondrial mutations associated with the condition. Guidance for patient management and potential treatment strategies.
The Leigh Syndrome Mitochondrial Mutation Detection Test is a diagnostic tool used to identify Leigh syndrome, a rare and severe neurological disorder. This condition involves the progressive loss of mental and movement abilities. The test helps understand the genetic basis of the disorder, aiding healthcare providers in patient care.

This test specifically looks for mutations in the mitochondria, which are responsible for energy production within cells. Disruptions in mitochondrial function due to mutations can lead to significant neurological problems characteristic of Leigh syndrome.

Individuals experiencing symptoms like developmental delays, loss of motor skills, seizures, or other neurological issues may be candidates for this test. It is also recommended for those with a family history of Leigh syndrome or related mitochondrial disorders. Early diagnosis is crucial for effective management and potential treatment options.

Understanding the results requires consultation with a healthcare provider. They can interpret the findings and discuss the implications for the patient's health and potential 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 special preparation is required for the patient.
Sample4 mL (2 mL minimum) whole blood collected in a lavender top (EDTA) tube.
MethodologyGenetic analysis to detect specific mitochondrial DNA mutations.
PrivacyYour sample and report are handled confidentially. Ask the team how your information is stored and shared.
This test detects specific mitochondrial mutations associated with Leigh syndrome but may not identify all possible genetic causes. A negative result does not completely rule out the condition. 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

Leigh syndrome is a rare, severe neurological disorder that typically becomes apparent in infancy or early childhood. It causes progressive loss of mental and movement abilities.
This test helps confirm a diagnosis of Leigh syndrome by identifying specific genetic mutations. Early diagnosis allows for timely management and potential interventions.
Individuals showing symptoms like developmental delays, loss of motor skills, or seizures, especially if there's a family history of similar conditions, should discuss testing with their doctor.
A blood sample is required. The laboratory needs 4 mL (2 mL minimum) of whole blood in a lavender top (EDTA) tube.
Results are typically available by Friday if the sample is received by Monday 9 am. Please confirm the current turnaround time with the laboratory.
A positive result indicates the presence of specific mitochondrial mutations linked to Leigh syndrome. Your doctor will interpret the results and discuss their implications with you.
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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