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Medical information Clinical review pending

Genetic Testing

SCA Spinocerebellar Ataxia Profile Any 4 Markers Test

Genetic test to identify markers for Spinocerebellar Ataxia (SCA), a group of inherited neurological disorders affecting coordination and balance. Helps guide management for those with symptoms or family history.

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
4 mL (minimum 2 mL) of whole blood collected in a Lavender top (EDTA) tube.
Results
Confirm with the laboratory before booking.
Preparation
No specific patient preparation is required. Ensure the sample is collected correctly in the specified tube.
Test priceKSh 20,000

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 SCA Spinocerebellar Ataxia Profile Any 4 Markers 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 of progressive ataxia (e.g., balance problems, coordination difficulties).
  • ✓Family history of Spinocerebellar Ataxia.
  • ✓Neurological assessment requiring differentiation of ataxia causes.
  • ✓Genetic counseling for individuals concerned about hereditary ataxia risk.
02

In plain language

What this test helps you understand

This test helps identify individuals with genetic mutations associated with specific types of Spinocerebellar Ataxia (SCA). It aids in diagnosis, risk assessment for family members, and can inform management strategies for individuals with neurological symptoms suggestive of SCA.
The SCA Spinocerebellar Ataxia Profile Any 4 Markers Test is a specialized genetic diagnostic tool used to assess the risk of developing certain types of spinocerebellar ataxia (SCA). SCA refers to a group of inherited neurological disorders that cause progressive problems with movement, coordination, and balance. This test looks for specific genetic changes associated with different SCA types. Understanding your genetic risk can be important for planning and management. This test analyzes four selected genetic markers from a panel including ATXN1, ATXN2, ATXN3, CACNA1A, ATXN7, and PPP2R2B. Results are interpreted by healthcare professionals in the context of your clinical picture and family history.
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 specified tube.
Sample4 mL (minimum 2 mL) of whole blood collected in a Lavender top (EDTA) tube.
MethodologyGenetic analysis using molecular techniques to detect specific mutations in the selected SCA-associated genes.
PrivacyYour sample and report are handled confidentially. Ask the team how your information is stored and shared.
This test analyzes only four selected markers from a panel of SCA-associated genes. A negative result does not completely rule out all forms of SCA, as other genes or genetic factors may be involved. 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

SCA is a group of inherited neurological disorders that cause progressive problems with movement, coordination, and balance.
Individuals experiencing symptoms like balance issues or coordination difficulties, or those with a family history of SCA, may benefit from this test.
The test analyzes four specific genetic markers associated with different types of SCA from a panel of known genes.
Results are interpreted by your healthcare provider, considering your symptoms, family history, and the specific genetic findings.
A blood sample collected in a specific Lavender top (EDTA) tube is required.
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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