Medical information Clinical review pending

Genetic Testing

POLH Gene Xeroderma Pigmentosum Variant Type Genetic Test

Genetic test to identify mutations in the POLH gene associated with Xeroderma Pigmentosum, a condition causing extreme sun sensitivity and increased skin cancer risk.

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: Approximately 3 to 4 weeks. Confirm with the laboratory before booking.
Preparation: No specific fasting is required. A detailed clinical history and family history (pedigree chart) are necessary before testing. A genetic counseling session is recommended prior to sample collection.

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 POLH Gene Xeroderma Pigmentosum Variant Type 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.

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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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+254

Insurer or scheme

Policy / member number (optional)

Used only to process your coverage check — see our Privacy Policy. Verification support is free and does not guarantee your provider will pay.

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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 Xeroderma Pigmentosum (XP)
✓Family history of XP
✓Extreme sensitivity to sunlight
✓Early onset of skin cancers
✓Recurrent skin lesions in sun-exposed areas
✓Genetic counseling for families with XP

In plain language

What this test helps you understand

This test helps identify specific genetic mutations in the POLH gene associated with Xeroderma Pigmentosum Variant Type. It aids in confirming a diagnosis, understanding the genetic basis of the condition, and assessing risk for affected individuals and their families.

The POLH Gene Xeroderma Pigmentosum Variant Type NGS Genetic DNA Test is a specialized diagnostic examination used to detect genetic mutations linked to Xeroderma Pigmentosum (XP). XP is a rare inherited disorder where the body's ability to repair DNA damage caused by ultraviolet (UV) light is impaired, leading to severe sun sensitivity, skin damage, and a significantly increased risk of skin cancers. This test employs Next-Generation Sequencing (NGS) technology for accurate and detailed analysis of the POLH gene. The POLH gene plays a crucial role in DNA repair mechanisms within the skin cells. Identifying mutations in this gene can help understand an individual's susceptibility to XP-related skin conditions. This test is particularly relevant for individuals with a family history of XP or those presenting with symptoms like extreme sunburns, early-onset skin lesions, or skin cancers.

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.

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A simple process

What happens next?

You do not have to navigate the test alone. We help you move from question to next step.

Speak with us

We check the test and answer your questions before collection.

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.

Understand your report

A counselor helps you understand the result and the next steps.

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 fasting is required. A detailed clinical history and family history (pedigree chart) are necessary before testing. A genetic counseling session is recommended prior to sample collection.

SampleBlood sample (EDTA tube), extracted DNA, or one drop of blood on an FTA card.

MethodologyNext-Generation Sequencing (NGS) of the POLH gene.

PrivacyYour sample and report are handled confidentially. Ask the team how your information is stored and shared.

This test specifically analyzes the POLH gene. It does not detect mutations in other genes associated with Xeroderma Pigmentosum or other genetic skin disorders. Results may be affected by sample quality. Confirm with the laboratory before booking.

Read your report

What common result terms mean

TermPlain-language meaning

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.

Questions people ask

Frequently asked questions

XP is a rare genetic disorder where the body cannot properly repair DNA damage caused by UV light, leading to extreme sun sensitivity and a high risk of skin cancer.

Individuals with symptoms suggestive of XP, a family history of XP, or those advised by their doctor or genetic counselor should consider this test.

The test analyzes a sample of your blood or DNA to look for specific changes (mutations) in the POLH gene using Next-Generation Sequencing (NGS).

Results will indicate if mutations in the POLH gene were found. A genetic counselor can help explain the results and their implications for your health and family.

Yes, genetic counseling is highly recommended before and after testing to understand the test, interpret the results, and discuss potential risks and management options.

Discuss the results with your doctor and genetic counselor. They can provide guidance on necessary precautions, such as strict sun protection, regular skin checks, and potential management strategies.

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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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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