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Medical information Clinical review pending

Genetic Testing

POLR3A Gene Leukodystrophy Hypomyelinating Type 7 Genetic Test

Genetic test to identify mutations in the POLR3A gene associated with hypomyelinating leukodystrophy, a rare neurological disorder. Helps in diagnosis and 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) or extracted DNA. Confirm specific requirements with the laboratory before booking.
Results
Approximately 3 to 4 weeks. Confirm with the laboratory before booking.
Preparation
Patients should discuss their medical and family history with their doctor before the test. A genetic counseling session may be recommended. 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 POLR3A Gene Leukodystrophy Hypomyelinating Type 7 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 hypomyelinating leukodystrophy (e.g., developmental delay, motor difficulties).
  • ✓Family history of POLR3A-related disorders.
  • ✓Genetic counseling for individuals or families with neurological conditions.
  • ✓Prenatal or preimplantation genetic diagnosis considerations.
  • ✓Confirmation of diagnosis in suspected cases.
02

In plain language

What this test helps you understand

Identifies mutations in the POLR3A gene associated with hypomyelinating leukodystrophy type 7, aiding in diagnosis and management of this rare neurological disorder.
This test identifies mutations in the POLR3A gene, which are linked to hypomyelinating leukodystrophy type 7. This is a rare neurological condition affecting the brain's myelin sheath, potentially causing developmental delays and neurological issues. Early diagnosis through genetic testing is important for understanding the condition and guiding management.

This genetic test uses Next-Generation Sequencing (NGS) to analyze the POLR3A gene. It looks for specific mutations that can cause hypomyelination.

Consider this test if you have a family history of POLR3A-related disorders, or if you or a family member show symptoms like developmental delays, motor difficulties, or cognitive impairments. It can also be useful for genetic counseling and family planning discussions.

Benefits include potential for early diagnosis, informed decisions about treatment and family planning, and access to relevant support resources.

Results will indicate if a mutation in the POLR3A gene was detected. Discuss your results with your doctor to understand their implications and plan 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 →
PreparationPatients should discuss their medical and family history with their doctor before the test. A genetic counseling session may be recommended. Confirm with the laboratory before booking.
SampleBlood sample (EDTA tube) or extracted DNA. Confirm specific requirements with the laboratory before booking.
MethodologyNext-Generation Sequencing (NGS) analysis of the POLR3A gene.
PrivacyYour sample and report are handled confidentially. Ask the team how your information is stored and shared.
This test specifically analyzes the POLR3A gene. It does not detect mutations in other genes that may cause similar symptoms. A negative result does not completely rule out a genetic cause for the symptoms. 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

It is a rare genetic neurological disorder affecting the myelin sheath in the brain, potentially causing developmental delays and neurological impairments.
Individuals with symptoms like developmental delays or motor difficulties, those with a family history of the condition, or those seeking genetic counseling may benefit.
A positive result indicates the presence of a mutation in the POLR3A gene associated with the condition. Discuss the implications with your doctor.
A negative result means no mutations in the POLR3A gene were detected by this test. It does not rule out other genetic causes.
Typically, a blood sample is required. Home sample collection may be available. Confirm collection details with the laboratory.
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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