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Medical information Clinical review pending

Genetic Testing

PML RARA t1517q22q12 Gene Rearrangement Qualitative PCR Test

This test detects the PML-RARA gene fusion, a specific genetic marker for acute promyelocytic leukemia (APL), a subtype of acute myeloid leukemia (AML). It helps confirm diagnosis and guide treatment.

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
5 mL (3 mL minimum) whole blood collected in two Lavender Top (EDTA) tubes.
Results
Confirm with the laboratory before booking.
Preparation
No specific patient preparation is required. Ensure the sample is collected correctly in the appropriate tubes.
Test priceKSh 15,000

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 PML RARA t1517q22q12 Gene Rearrangement Qualitative PCR 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.

  • ✓Suspected acute promyelocytic leukemia (APL)
  • ✓Evaluation of acute myeloid leukemia (AML)
  • ✓Patients presenting with symptoms suggestive of leukemia (e.g., fatigue, infections, bruising)
  • ✓Monitoring treatment response in APL patients
  • ✓Risk stratification for leukemia
02

In plain language

What this test helps you understand

This test is used to detect the presence of the PML-RARA gene fusion, which is characteristic of acute promyelocytic leukemia (APL). It aids in confirming the diagnosis of APL, differentiating it from other types of leukemia, and guiding appropriate treatment strategies.
The PML RARA t1517q22q12 Gene Rearrangement Qualitative PCR Test is a specialized molecular diagnostic test used primarily in the evaluation of patients suspected of having leukemia. This test plays a significant role in identifying specific gene rearrangements that are crucial for diagnosing and managing this type of cancer. Understanding these genetic alterations can lead to timely and appropriate treatment interventions.

This qualitative PCR test detects the presence of the PML-RARA fusion gene, which is formed due to a chromosomal translocation. The presence of this gene is a hallmark of acute promyelocytic leukemia (APL), a subtype of acute myeloid leukemia (AML). By identifying this genetic marker, healthcare providers can confirm a diagnosis and tailor treatment strategies accordingly.

Patients who exhibit symptoms of leukemia, such as unexplained fatigue, frequent infections, easy bruising or bleeding, or bone pain, may be advised to consider this test. Individuals with known risk factors, such as a family history of leukemia or previous exposure to certain chemicals, should also discuss this test with their doctor for early detection and management.

Early detection of APL can significantly improve treatment outcomes. This test helps oncologists make informed decisions regarding therapy options, guides monitoring of treatment response, and provides valuable information for patient care.
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. Ensure the sample is collected correctly in the appropriate tubes.
Sample5 mL (3 mL minimum) whole blood collected in two Lavender Top (EDTA) tubes.
MethodologyQualitative Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR).
PrivacyYour sample and report are handled confidentially. Ask the team how your information is stored and shared.
This test specifically detects the PML-RARA gene rearrangement. It does not detect other genetic abnormalities associated with leukemia. A negative result does not rule out leukemia entirely. 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

This test looks for a specific genetic change (PML-RARA fusion gene) that is a key marker for a type of leukemia called acute promyelocytic leukemia (APL).
Detecting this specific gene rearrangement helps doctors confirm a diagnosis of APL, which is crucial because APL requires specific and urgent treatment.
This test is typically ordered for individuals suspected of having leukemia, particularly APL, based on their symptoms and initial blood tests.
A blood sample collected in specific lavender-top (EDTA) tubes is required for this test.
Turnaround time varies. Please contact the laboratory for specific details regarding result availability.
A positive result indicates the presence of the PML-RARA gene fusion, supporting a diagnosis of APL. A negative result suggests this specific rearrangement is not present, but further tests may be needed.
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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