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Medical information Clinical review pending

Genetic Testing

MERRF Myoclonic Epilepsy Associated With Ragged Red Fibres Mutation Detection Test

Genetic test to detect mutations associated with Myoclonic Epilepsy with Ragged Red Fibres (MERRF) syndrome, a neurological disorder.

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) of whole blood collected in a Lavender top (EDTA) tube.
Results
Confirm with the laboratory before booking.
Preparation
No specific patient preparation is required for this blood test. Ensure the Genomics Clinical Information Requisition Form (Form 20) is completed.
Test priceKSh 32,000

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 MERRF Myoclonic Epilepsy Associated With Ragged Red Fibres 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.

  • ✓Presence of myoclonic seizures
  • ✓Symptoms of ataxia (problems with coordination)
  • ✓Unexplained muscle weakness
  • ✓Family history of MERRF syndrome
  • ✓Family history of related mitochondrial disorders
  • ✓Diagnosis of unexplained neurological symptoms
02

In plain language

What this test helps you understand

This test helps confirm a diagnosis of MERRF syndrome by identifying specific mutations in mitochondrial DNA. It aids in differentiating MERRF from other neurological disorders and can inform genetic counseling for affected families.
The MERRF Myoclonic Epilepsy Associated With Ragged Red Fibres Mutation Detection Test is a diagnostic tool used to identify specific genetic mutations linked to MERRF syndrome. This condition is a mitochondrial disorder that primarily affects the nervous system, causing various neurological symptoms. Identifying these mutations is important for confirming a diagnosis and guiding patient care. This test looks for alterations in mitochondrial DNA associated with MERRF. Discussing the results with a healthcare provider is essential to understand their meaning and implications for treatment and 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.

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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 this blood test. Ensure the Genomics Clinical Information Requisition Form (Form 20) is completed.
Sample4 mL (2 mL minimum) of whole blood collected in a Lavender top (EDTA) tube.
MethodologyMolecular genetic testing, specifically looking for mutations in mitochondrial DNA.
PrivacyYour sample and report are handled confidentially. Ask the team how your information is stored and shared.
This test detects specific known mutations associated with MERRF. It may not identify all possible mutations. A negative result does not completely rule out MERRF syndrome. 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

MERRF stands for Myoclonic Epilepsy with Ragged Red Fibres. It is a rare genetic disorder that affects the nervous system, causing symptoms like seizures, muscle weakness, and coordination problems.
This test helps confirm a diagnosis of MERRF syndrome by identifying specific genetic mutations. An accurate diagnosis is crucial for proper management and treatment.
Individuals experiencing symptoms like myoclonic seizures, ataxia, or muscle weakness, especially if there is a family history of MERRF or related disorders, should consider this test.
A blood sample is required. The laboratory requires 4 mL (2 mL minimum) of whole blood in a Lavender top (EDTA) tube.
Confirm with the laboratory before booking.
A positive result indicates the presence of specific mutations associated with MERRF syndrome, helping to confirm the diagnosis. Discuss the results with your doctor.
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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