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Medical information Clinical review pending

Genetic Testing

MTTC Gene MELAS Syndrome Genetic Test

Genetic test to identify mutations in the MTTC gene associated with MELAS syndrome, a rare mitochondrial disorder. Helps diagnose unexplained neurological symptoms and muscle weakness.

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, Extracted DNA, or One drop of blood on FTA card.
Results
Approximately 3 to 4 weeks. Confirm with the laboratory before booking.
Preparation
A clinical history and genetic counseling session are recommended before the test. Discuss your symptoms and family history with your doctor.
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 MTTC Gene MELAS Syndrome 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.

  • ✓Unexplained neurological symptoms
  • ✓Muscle weakness
  • ✓Recurrent headaches
  • ✓Seizures
  • ✓Hearing loss
  • ✓Family history of MELAS syndrome
  • ✓Developmental delays
02

In plain language

What this test helps you understand

This test helps identify mutations in the MTTC gene associated with MELAS syndrome, aiding in diagnosis, prognosis, and genetic counseling for affected individuals and families.
The MTTC Gene MELAS Syndrome NGS Genetic DNA Test is a specialized genetic test designed to identify mutations in the MTTC gene associated with MELAS syndrome. MELAS is a rare mitochondrial disorder that can affect various parts of the body, particularly the brain and muscles. This test is vital for diagnosing individuals with unexplained neurological symptoms, muscle weakness, and other related health issues. Understanding your genetic makeup can guide treatment options and inform family planning decisions.

This test detects specific mutations in the MTTC gene that are linked to MELAS syndrome. By analyzing the patient's DNA using Next Generation Sequencing (NGS) technology, healthcare providers can gain insights into genetic predispositions that may affect the patient's health.

Taking this test provides several benefits, including early diagnosis of MELAS syndrome, informed decision-making regarding treatment options, guidance for family planning and genetic counseling, and access to specialized care and support.

Results from the test will be interpreted by a qualified genetic counselor or medical professional. They will explain the implications of your results, including potential health risks and available management strategies.
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 →
PreparationA clinical history and genetic counseling session are recommended before the test. Discuss your symptoms and family history with your doctor.
SampleBlood sample, Extracted DNA, or One drop of blood on FTA card.
MethodologyNext Generation Sequencing (NGS) analysis of the MTTC gene.
PrivacyYour sample and report are handled confidentially. Ask the team how your information is stored and shared.
This test specifically analyzes the MTTC gene. Other genes or factors may be involved in MELAS syndrome or similar conditions. 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

MELAS syndrome is a rare mitochondrial disorder that can affect various parts of the body, especially the brain and muscles. It is caused by mutations in mitochondrial DNA.
Individuals experiencing symptoms like recurrent headaches, seizures, muscle weakness, hearing loss, or developmental delays, as well as those with a family history of MELAS, should consider this test.
The test involves analyzing a sample of your DNA (from blood or an FTA card) to look for specific mutations in the MTTC gene.
Results are interpreted by a qualified genetic counselor or medical professional who will explain the findings and their implications.
Benefits include potential early diagnosis, guidance for treatment options, and information for family planning and genetic counseling.
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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