Skip to main content
Medical information Clinical review pending

Genetic Testing

PDGFR Mutation Screening Exons 12 14 18

This genetic test identifies specific mutations in the PDGFR gene (Exons 12, 14, 18), which can be important for understanding and managing certain types of cancer, particularly gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GISTs).

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
Paraffin-embedded tumor tissue block.
Results
Approximately 7-8 days. Confirm with the laboratory before booking.
Preparation
No specific patient preparation is required. The sample is typically obtained from a biopsy or surgical procedure.
Test priceKSh 24,000

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 PDGFR Mutation Screening Exons 12 14 18 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.

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.

  • ✓Diagnosis or monitoring of gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GISTs)
  • ✓Patients with other tumors where PDGFR mutations may be relevant
  • ✓Individuals with symptoms suggestive of GISTs (e.g., abdominal pain, bleeding)
  • ✓Guiding targeted therapy decisions
  • ✓Understanding tumor biology and potential treatment response
02

In plain language

What this test helps you understand

This test helps identify specific mutations in the PDGFR gene associated with certain cancers, particularly GISTs. This information can aid in diagnosis, guide treatment decisions (including targeted therapies), and inform prognosis.
This test screens for mutations in specific parts (Exons 12, 14, and 18) of the Platelet-Derived Growth Factor Receptor (PDGFR) gene. Mutations in this gene are associated with certain cancers, most notably gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GISTs). Identifying these mutations can provide valuable information for diagnosis and treatment planning.

This test specifically looks at the genetic material within tumor tissue to detect changes in the PDGFR gene. Understanding these changes helps doctors determine the best course of treatment, including potential targeted therapies.

If you have been diagnosed with a GIST or a related tumor, or if you have symptoms that might suggest such a condition, your doctor may recommend this test. It can also be relevant for individuals with a family history of related genetic conditions. Discuss with your healthcare provider if this test is appropriate for you.
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. The sample is typically obtained from a biopsy or surgical procedure.
SampleParaffin-embedded tumor tissue block.
MethodologyMolecular genetic testing (e.g., sequencing) performed on tumor tissue.
PrivacyYour sample and report are handled confidentially. Ask the team how your information is stored and shared.
This test only screens for mutations in Exons 12, 14, and 18 of the PDGFR gene. It does not detect mutations in other parts of the gene or other genes. Results must be interpreted in the context of the patient's clinical picture and other diagnostic findings. 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

The PDGFR gene provides instructions for making a protein involved in cell growth and division. Mutations in this gene can contribute to the development of certain cancers.
Exons are the coding portions of a gene. This test specifically looks for mutations within these particular sections of the PDGFR gene.
This test is primarily recommended for individuals diagnosed with gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GISTs) or other related cancers where PDGFR mutations might be present.
The test requires a sample of tumor tissue, usually obtained from a biopsy or surgery and preserved in paraffin.
Results are typically available within 7-8 days, but this can vary. Confirm with the laboratory before booking.
Insurance coverage varies. Please check with your insurance provider regarding coverage for genetic testing.
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 →
Chat on WhatsApp