Skip to main content
●+254 119 023975 support@dnalabskenya.com
Patient Portal LoginB2B / Doctor Portal
DNA LabsKenya
Medical information Clinical review pending

Genetic Testing

Mitochondrial Encephalomyopathy Lactic Acidosis and Strokelike Episodes MELAS Mutation Detection Test

The MELAS Mutation Detection Test identifies genetic mutations linked to Mitochondrial Encephalomyopathy Lactic Acidosis and Strokelike Episodes (MELAS) syndrome, aiding in diagnosis and management.

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.

Ask a question
Counselor guidance included Confidential handling Kenya-wide coordination

At a glance

Plan your test

Sample
Blood sample (EDTA tube). Confirm specific requirements with the laboratory before booking.
Results
Results are typically available within one week. Confirm exact turnaround time with the laboratory before booking.
Preparation
No special preparation is typically required for this blood test. Confirm with the laboratory before booking.
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 Mitochondrial Encephalomyopathy Lactic Acidosis and Strokelike Episodes MELAS 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.

+254

Used only to process your coverage check — see our Privacy Policy. Verification support is free and does not guarantee your provider will pay.

WhatsApp the claims team Call us
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.

  • ✓Symptoms suggestive of MELAS syndrome (e.g., stroke-like episodes, seizures, muscle weakness).
  • ✓Family history of MELAS or related mitochondrial disorders.
  • ✓Neurological symptoms of unknown origin.
  • ✓Lactic acidosis.
  • ✓Hearing loss.
  • ✓Developmental delays.
02

In plain language

What this test helps you understand

This test helps confirm a diagnosis of MELAS syndrome by identifying specific mutations in mitochondrial DNA. Accurate diagnosis allows for appropriate management strategies, genetic counseling, and potential family screening.
The Mitochondrial Encephalomyopathy Lactic Acidosis and Strokelike Episodes (MELAS) Mutation Detection Test is an advanced diagnostic tool designed to identify specific genetic mutations associated with MELAS syndrome. This condition primarily affects the nervous system and muscles, leading to a range of debilitating symptoms. Early diagnosis is crucial for effective management and treatment, making this test an essential option for patients experiencing relevant symptoms. This test focuses on detecting mutations in the mitochondrial DNA responsible for MELAS syndrome, using advanced techniques for accurate results.
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. Confirm with the laboratory before booking.
SampleBlood sample (EDTA tube). Confirm specific requirements with the laboratory before booking.
MethodologyPolymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) and DNA sequencing are used to detect 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 MELAS. It may not identify all possible mutations. A negative result does not completely rule out MELAS syndrome. Interpretation 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

MELAS stands for Mitochondrial Encephalomyopathy Lactic Acidosis and Strokelike Episodes. It is a rare genetic disorder affecting the mitochondria, the energy-producing parts of cells, primarily impacting the brain, muscles, and nerves.
This test helps confirm a diagnosis of MELAS syndrome, which is crucial for proper management, treatment planning, and genetic counseling for the patient and their family.
Symptoms like stroke-like episodes, seizures, muscle weakness, hearing loss, and developmental delays may warrant testing for MELAS syndrome. Discuss your symptoms with your doctor.
Results will indicate whether specific mutations associated with MELAS were detected. Your doctor will interpret these results in the context of your clinical symptoms and medical history.
Insurance coverage varies. Please check with your insurance provider regarding coverage for genetic testing.
You can book the test by calling or WhatsApping +254711564616. Ensure you have completed the Genomics Clinical Information Requisition Form (Form 20).
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.

Keep exploring

Related tests

View all tests →

Beta CTx Beta Crosslaps Collagen Type 1 C-Telopeptide Test

The Beta CTx test measures bone resorption markers to help assess bone health and osteoporosis risk.

Learn more →

Bcell Rearrangement Detection Test

The Bcell Rearrangement Detection Test helps diagnose leukemia by identifying genetic changes in B cells. It's a key tool for hematologists and oncologists.

Learn more →

Dpd Gene Mutations 5Fu Toxicity Detection Test

This genetic test identifies mutations in the DPD gene, helping predict the risk of severe side effects from the chemotherapy drug 5-fluorouracil (5FU).

Learn more →

Ganciclovir Resistance Detection Test

This test checks for genetic changes in the cytomegalovirus (CMV) that may make it resistant to the antiviral medication Ganciclovir. It helps guide treatment decisions, especially for patients with weakened immune systems.

Learn more →
Chat on WhatsApp