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Medical information Clinical review pending

Genetic Testing

MSX1 Gene Orofacial Cleft Type 5 Genetic Test

Genetic test to identify mutations in the MSX1 gene associated with orofacial clefts. Provides insights into genetic risks for families with a history of these conditions.

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 dried blood spot (DBS) on FTA card.
Results
Approximately 3 to 4 weeks. Confirm with the laboratory before booking.
Preparation
No specific patient preparation is required. Confirm with the laboratory before booking.
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 MSX1 Gene Orofacial Cleft 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 history of orofacial cleft.
  • ✓Family history of orofacial cleft.
  • ✓Recurrent pregnancy affected by orofacial cleft.
  • ✓Genetic counseling recommended for craniofacial anomalies.
  • ✓Prenatal diagnosis considerations (requires specialist consultation).
02

In plain language

What this test helps you understand

This test helps identify specific genetic mutations in the MSX1 gene linked to orofacial clefts, aiding in understanding the genetic basis of the condition within a family.
The MSX1 Gene Orofacial Cleft Type 5 NGS Genetic DNA Test is a specialized genetic analysis designed to detect mutations within the MSX1 gene. This gene is known to play a significant role in the development of the face and mouth. Mutations in this gene can be associated with orofacial clefts, which are birth defects affecting the lip and/or palate. Understanding the genetic basis of these conditions can be important for families. This test uses Next Generation Sequencing (NGS) technology to examine the MSX1 gene for specific variations linked to orofacial clefts. It can help confirm or rule out the presence of these mutations. This test is particularly relevant for individuals or families with a personal or family history of orofacial clefts. Genetic counseling is recommended before undergoing this test to discuss its purpose, potential results, and implications.
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. Confirm with the laboratory before booking.
SampleBlood sample (EDTA tube), extracted DNA, or dried blood spot (DBS) on FTA card.
MethodologyNext Generation Sequencing (NGS) analysis of the MSX1 gene.
PrivacyYour sample and report are handled confidentially. Ask the team how your information is stored and shared.
This test only analyzes the MSX1 gene. Orofacial clefts can be caused by mutations in other genes or environmental factors. A negative result does not completely rule out a genetic cause. 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

An orofacial cleft is a birth defect that occurs when the lip and/or palate do not fuse together completely during pregnancy.
Individuals or families with a history of orofacial clefts may benefit from this test. Genetic counseling is recommended to discuss suitability.
The test analyzes a sample of your DNA (usually from a blood sample or dried blood spot) to look for specific changes in the MSX1 gene.
Results will indicate if specific mutations in the MSX1 gene were found. A genetic counselor will help explain the results and their implications.
This test identifies specific genetic risks related to the MSX1 gene. It does not guarantee a diagnosis or rule out other causes. Discuss your specific situation with a healthcare provider.
The typical turnaround time is around 3 to 4 weeks, but this can vary. Confirm with the laboratory before booking.
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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