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Medical information Clinical review pending

Genetic Testing

SCA5 Spinocerebellar Ataxia SPTBN2 Gene Mutation Test

Genetic test to identify mutations in the SPTBN2 gene associated with Spinocerebellar Ataxia Type 5 (SCA5), a neurological disorder affecting coordination and balance.

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.
Results
Results are typically available by Saturday, provided the sample is submitted by Tuesday at 11 am. Confirm with the laboratory before booking.
Preparation
No special preparation is required for this blood test. Confirm with the laboratory before booking.
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 SCA5 Spinocerebellar Ataxia SPTBN2 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.

  • ✓Symptoms of progressive ataxia (loss of coordination, balance problems).
  • ✓Family history of Spinocerebellar Ataxia.
  • ✓Diagnosis of neurological disorders.
  • ✓Genetic counseling for individuals with ataxia.
  • ✓Risk assessment for individuals with relevant family history.
02

In plain language

What this test helps you understand

This test helps identify individuals with mutations in the SPTBN2 gene, confirming a diagnosis of SCA5. It can aid in understanding the cause of neurological symptoms, guiding patient management, and providing information for genetic counseling and family planning.
The SCA5 Spinocerebellar Ataxia SPTBN2 Gene Mutation Test is used to detect specific genetic changes in the SPTBN2 gene. Mutations in this gene are known to cause Spinocerebellar Ataxia Type 5 (SCA5), a condition characterized by progressive difficulties with movement, balance, and coordination. This test analyzes DNA extracted from a blood sample to identify these mutations. Understanding the genetic basis of ataxia can be crucial for diagnosis, prognosis, and guiding management strategies. This test is particularly relevant for individuals with symptoms suggestive of SCA5 or a family history of the condition. Results help healthcare providers understand the underlying cause of symptoms and provide appropriate counseling and 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 special preparation is required for this blood test. Confirm with the laboratory before booking.
Sample4 mL (2 mL minimum) whole blood collected in a Lavender top (EDTA) tube.
MethodologyDNA sequencing or other molecular genetic methods are used to analyze the SPTBN2 gene for specific mutations.
PrivacyYour sample and report are handled confidentially. Ask the team how your information is stored and shared.
This test specifically analyzes the SPTBN2 gene. It does not detect mutations in other genes associated with ataxia. A negative result does not completely rule out SCA5 or other forms of ataxia, as other genetic causes may exist. 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

SCA5 is a genetic neurological disorder characterized by progressive problems with coordination, balance, and movement.
Individuals experiencing symptoms like balance issues or coordination difficulties, or those with a family history of ataxia, should discuss this test with their doctor.
A positive result indicates the presence of mutations in the SPTBN2 gene associated with SCA5. It's important to discuss this with your doctor for interpretation.
A negative result means no mutations in the SPTBN2 gene were detected. However, other genetic causes of ataxia might exist. Consult your doctor.
A blood sample is required for this test. The laboratory will provide specific instructions on collection.
Results are generally available within a specific timeframe after sample submission. Please confirm the current turnaround time 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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