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Genetic Testing

SPTB Gene Anemia Neonatal Hemolytic Fatal and Near-Fatal Genetic Test

This genetic test identifies mutations in the SPTB gene associated with severe neonatal hemolytic anemia. It uses Next-Generation Sequencing (NGS) technology to help diagnose genetic conditions causing significant anemia in newborns, aiding in early 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 Saliva sample. Confirm specific requirements with the laboratory before booking.
Results
Confirm with the laboratory before booking.
Preparation
A clinical history of the patient and family is required. Genetic counseling is recommended prior to testing to discuss the implications and create a pedigree chart. 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 SPTB Gene Anemia Neonatal Hemolytic Fatal and Near-Fatal 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.

  • ✓Newborn with severe jaundice
  • ✓Newborn requiring blood transfusion for anemia
  • ✓Family history of severe hemolytic anemia
  • ✓Family history of SPTB gene mutations
  • ✓Genetic counseling for families with risk factors
  • ✓Prenatal diagnosis in high-risk pregnancies
02

In plain language

What this test helps you understand

Identifies specific mutations in the SPTB gene associated with severe neonatal hemolytic anemia, aiding in diagnosis, prognosis, and management planning.
The SPTB Gene Anemia Neonatal Hemolytic Fatal and Near-Fatal NGS Genetic DNA Test is a specialized diagnostic tool used to detect mutations within the SPTB gene. These mutations are linked to severe forms of hemolytic anemia that can present in newborns, sometimes with life-threatening consequences. This test is particularly important for families where there is a known history of hemolytic anemia or related genetic blood disorders. Early detection through this test allows healthcare providers to understand the risks and implement appropriate management strategies for the newborn.

This test specifically looks for genetic changes in the SPTB gene. The information gained helps clinicians understand the underlying cause of severe anemia in infants and guides treatment decisions. It is a valuable tool for families seeking clarity about potential genetic risks related to blood disorders.

Consideration for this test is often recommended for individuals with a family history of severe hemolytic anemia, or those who have previously had a child affected by such conditions. Symptoms in a newborn that might prompt discussion about this test include severe jaundice shortly after birth or anemia requiring blood transfusions.

Taking this test offers several benefits, including the potential for early diagnosis of serious genetic conditions, enabling timely intervention. It provides crucial information for making informed decisions about the care of a newborn and future family planning. Accessing genetic counseling alongside the test results is essential for understanding the implications and available support.

Results are typically available within 3 to 4 weeks. A genetic counselor will be available to discuss the findings, explain their meaning for the individual and family, and answer any questions. This test is a proactive measure for families concerned about the risk of severe neonatal anemia due to SPTB gene mutations.
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.

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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 →
PreparationA clinical history of the patient and family is required. Genetic counseling is recommended prior to testing to discuss the implications and create a pedigree chart. Confirm with the laboratory before booking.
SampleBlood sample (EDTA tube) or Saliva sample. Confirm specific requirements with the laboratory before booking.
MethodologyNext-Generation Sequencing (NGS) of the SPTB gene.
PrivacyYour sample and report are handled confidentially. Ask the team how your information is stored and shared.
This test detects specific mutations in the SPTB gene but may not identify all possible mutations. Results should be interpreted in conjunction with clinical findings and family history. 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

The SPTB gene provides instructions for making a protein called beta-spectrin, which is important for the shape and stability of red blood cells.
Hemolytic anemia is a condition where red blood cells are destroyed faster than they can be made, leading to a shortage of red blood cells (anemia).
Families with a history of severe anemia in newborns or related genetic blood disorders should discuss this test with their doctor or a genetic counselor.
Results are interpreted by a genetic counselor or specialist who will explain the findings in the context of the patient's clinical history and family background.
Genetic counseling is highly recommended before and after testing to understand the implications of the results and discuss management options. Confirm availability 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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