Skip to main content
Medical information Clinical review pending

Genetic Testing

Pik3ca Gene Cowden Syndrome Type 5 Genetic Test

This genetic test identifies mutations in the PIK3CA gene associated with Cowden syndrome, a condition increasing the risk of certain cancers. It uses Next-Generation Sequencing (NGS) technology.

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, 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 test, potential results, and family history (pedigree chart). 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 Pik3ca Gene Cowden Syndrome 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.

+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.

  • ✓Personal or family history of Cowden syndrome
  • ✓Presence of multiple benign tumors
  • ✓Specific skin lesions suggestive of Cowden syndrome
  • ✓Gastrointestinal polyps
  • ✓Thyroid abnormalities
  • ✓Increased risk of breast, thyroid, or endometrial cancer
02

In plain language

What this test helps you understand

Identifies mutations in the PIK3CA gene associated with Cowden syndrome, helping to assess cancer risk and guide management strategies.
The Pik3ca Gene Cowden Syndrome Type 5 NGS Genetic DNA Test is a diagnostic tool used to identify specific mutations in the PIK3CA gene. These mutations are linked to Cowden syndrome, a genetic disorder that significantly increases the risk of developing various types of cancer.

This test utilizes advanced Next-Generation Sequencing (NGS) technology for a comprehensive analysis of the PIK3CA gene. Detecting alterations in this gene can help healthcare providers assess an individual's predisposition to cancers, particularly breast, thyroid, and endometrial cancers.

Individuals with a personal or family history of Cowden syndrome, or those presenting with symptoms like multiple benign tumors, specific skin lesions, gastrointestinal polyps, or thyroid abnormalities, may be candidates for this test. Genetic counseling is strongly recommended before testing to understand the potential results and their implications.

Understanding the results of this test can empower individuals to make informed decisions about health management, including surveillance strategies, preventive measures, and potential treatment options. It also provides valuable information for assessing cancer risk within the family.
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 test, potential results, and family history (pedigree chart). Confirm with the laboratory before booking.
SampleBlood sample, Extracted DNA, or One drop of blood on an FTA card.
MethodologyNext-Generation Sequencing (NGS)
PrivacyYour sample and report are handled confidentially. Ask the team how your information is stored and shared.
This test specifically analyzes the PIK3CA gene. It may not detect all genetic causes of Cowden syndrome or related cancer risks. Results need interpretation by a qualified healthcare professional, ideally a genetic counselor.
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

Cowden syndrome is a rare genetic disorder that increases the risk of developing certain types of cancer, such as breast, thyroid, and endometrial cancer. It is often associated with mutations in the PIK3CA gene.
Individuals with a personal or family history of Cowden syndrome, or those showing symptoms like multiple benign tumors or specific skin lesions, should discuss this test with their doctor.
The test involves analyzing a sample of your blood or DNA using Next-Generation Sequencing (NGS) to look for specific mutations in the PIK3CA gene.
Results indicate the presence or absence of specific PIK3CA mutations. A genetic counselor or healthcare provider will help interpret the results and discuss their implications for your health and family.
Yes, genetic counseling before and after testing is highly recommended to understand the test's purpose, potential results, and implications for you and your family.
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