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Medical information Clinical review pending

Genetic Testing

SCA23 Spinocerebellar Ataxia PDYN Gene Mutation Test

This genetic test identifies mutations in the PDYN gene associated with Spinocerebellar Ataxia type 23 (SCA23), a neurological disorder affecting coordination and balance. Confirm with the laboratory before booking.

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 (2 mL minimum) whole blood collected in a Lavender top (EDTA) tube. The sample must be shipped refrigerated. Do not freeze. A completed Genomics Clinical Information Requisition Form (Form 20) is required.
Results
Sample received by Tuesday 11 am; Report available Saturday. Confirm with the laboratory before booking.
Preparation
No specific patient preparation is required for this blood test. Ensure the Genomics Clinical Information Requisition Form (Form 20) is completed accurately.
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 SCA23 Spinocerebellar Ataxia PDYN Gene Mutation 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 experiencing symptoms of ataxia (e.g., loss of coordination, balance problems, slurred speech).
  • ✓Individuals with a family history of Spinocerebellar Ataxia.
  • ✓Diagnosis confirmation when SCA23 is suspected based on clinical presentation.
  • ✓Genetic counseling and family planning for individuals with a known family history of SCA23.
  • ✓Research purposes related to ataxia.
02

In plain language

What this test helps you understand

This test helps identify individuals with mutations in the PDYN gene, confirming a diagnosis of SCA23. It can aid in understanding the cause of neurological symptoms, guiding management strategies, and providing information for genetic counseling and family planning.
The SCA23 Spinocerebellar Ataxia PDYN Gene Mutation Test is a diagnostic tool used to identify specific genetic mutations linked to Spinocerebellar Ataxia type 23 (SCA23). SCA23 is a neurological disorder characterized by the progressive loss of coordination, balance, and motor control. This test analyzes DNA to detect mutations within the PDYN gene, which are known to cause this condition. Understanding your genetic status can be important for diagnosis, prognosis, and family planning. Discuss the relevance of this test with your doctor.
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 for this blood test. Ensure the Genomics Clinical Information Requisition Form (Form 20) is completed accurately.
Sample4 mL (2 mL minimum) whole blood collected in a Lavender top (EDTA) tube. The sample must be shipped refrigerated. Do not freeze. A completed Genomics Clinical Information Requisition Form (Form 20) is required.
MethodologyPolymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) and Sequencing.
PrivacyYour sample and report are handled confidentially. Ask the team how your information is stored and shared.
This test only detects mutations in the PDYN gene associated with SCA23. It does not detect mutations in other genes that can cause different types of spinocerebellar ataxia or other neurological disorders. A negative result does not completely rule out SCA23 or other forms of ataxia. 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

SCA23 is a rare, inherited neurological disorder that causes progressive problems with coordination, balance, and movement.
This test specifically looks for mutations in the PDYN gene, which are known to cause SCA23.
Individuals experiencing symptoms suggestive of ataxia, or those with a family history of SCA23, should discuss this test with their doctor.
A positive result indicates the presence of a mutation in the PDYN gene associated with SCA23. Discuss the implications with your healthcare provider.
A negative result means no mutations in the PDYN gene were detected. However, it does not rule out other causes of ataxia. Consult your doctor.
A blood sample is required for this test. Specific instructions regarding collection and shipping will be provided.
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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