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Genetic Testing

PhyH Gene Refsum Disease Genetic Test

Genetic test using Next Generation Sequencing (NGS) to identify mutations in the PHYH gene associated with Refsum disease, a rare metabolic disorder. Helps understand genetic predisposition and guide 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.

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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 One drop of blood on an FTA card.
Results
3 to 4 Weeks. Confirm with the laboratory before booking.
Preparation
Provide a detailed clinical history. A genetic counseling session is recommended prior to testing to discuss the implications and draw a family pedigree chart.
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 PhyH Gene Refsum Disease 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.

  • ✓Individuals with symptoms suggestive of Refsum disease (e.g., vision problems, hearing loss, neurological issues).
  • ✓Individuals with a family history of Refsum disease.
  • ✓Confirmation of diagnosis in suspected cases.
  • ✓Genetic counseling for families affected by Refsum disease.
02

In plain language

What this test helps you understand

This test identifies specific genetic mutations in the PHYH gene, which are the cause of Refsum disease. It can confirm a diagnosis in individuals with suggestive symptoms or a family history of the condition. The results can help guide management strategies and inform family planning decisions through genetic counseling.
The PhyH Gene Refsum Disease NGS Genetic DNA Test is a diagnostic tool used to identify genetic mutations linked to Refsum disease, a rare metabolic disorder. This test utilizes Next Generation Sequencing (NGS) technology for precise analysis of the PHYH gene. Understanding your genetic makeup is important for managing health risks and making informed healthcare decisions. This test analyzes a blood sample or extracted DNA to detect variations in the PHYH gene that may contribute to the condition. Results are provided in a comprehensive report, which should be discussed with a healthcare professional for interpretation and guidance on next steps.
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 →
PreparationProvide a detailed clinical history. A genetic counseling session is recommended prior to testing to discuss the implications and draw a family pedigree chart.
SampleBlood sample (EDTA tube), Extracted DNA, or One drop of blood on an FTA card.
MethodologyNext Generation Sequencing (NGS) technology.
PrivacyYour sample and report are handled confidentially. Ask the team how your information is stored and shared.
This test specifically analyzes the PHYH gene. It may not detect mutations in other genes that could cause similar symptoms. Results should be interpreted in the context of clinical findings and family history. 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

Refsum disease is a rare, inherited metabolic disorder affecting the body's ability to break down certain fats (phytanic acid). It can cause various symptoms, including vision and hearing loss, neurological problems, and skin changes.
Testing is recommended for individuals experiencing symptoms consistent with Refsum disease, those with a family history of the condition, or for diagnostic confirmation.
The test involves analyzing a sample of your blood, extracted DNA, or a drop of blood on an FTA card to look for specific mutations in the PHYH gene.
Results are provided in a detailed report. It is crucial to discuss the findings with a healthcare professional or genetic counselor to understand their meaning and implications for your health.
Yes, genetic counseling before and after testing is highly recommended to understand the test's purpose, potential results, and their implications for you and your family.
The typical turnaround time is 3 to 4 weeks. 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.

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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