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Medical information Clinical review pending

Genetic Testing

TBP Gene Spinocerebellar Ataxia Type 17 Autosomal Dominant Genetic Test

Genetic test for mutations in the TBP gene associated with Spinocerebellar Ataxia Type 17 (SCA17), a hereditary neurological disorder affecting coordination and balance. Uses Next Generation Sequencing (NGS) technology.

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 (typically 5-10ml in an EDTA tube). Confirm specific requirements with the laboratory before booking.
Results
Confirm with the laboratory before booking.
Preparation
No special preparation is required for this test. Patients can eat and drink normally before the sample collection. 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 TBP Gene Spinocerebellar Ataxia Type 17 Autosomal Dominant 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 SCA17 (e.g., progressive ataxia, dysarthria, ophthalmoplegia).
  • ✓Family history of Spinocerebellar Ataxia or related neurological disorders.
  • ✓Confirmation of diagnosis when clinical suspicion is high.
  • ✓Genetic counseling for individuals with a family history of SCA17.
  • ✓Prenatal or preimplantation genetic diagnosis (requires specialist consultation).
02

In plain language

What this test helps you understand

This test helps identify mutations in the TBP gene, confirming or ruling out a diagnosis of Spinocerebellar Ataxia Type 17 (SCA17). It aids in understanding the genetic cause of neurological symptoms and informs prognosis and management strategies. Results can also be used for genetic counseling and family planning.
The TBP Gene Spinocerebellar Ataxia Type 17 Autosomal Dominant NGS Genetic DNA Test is a diagnostic tool used to identify genetic mutations linked to Spinocerebellar Ataxia Type 17 (SCA17). SCA17 is a hereditary neurological condition that impacts coordination and balance. This test utilizes advanced Next Generation Sequencing (NGS) technology to analyze the TBP gene, providing a detailed assessment for accurate diagnosis and management. Understanding the genetic basis of SCA17 can help guide treatment and family planning decisions. Consult with a healthcare professional to determine if this test is appropriate for you.
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 test. Patients can eat and drink normally before the sample collection. Confirm with the laboratory before booking.
SampleBlood sample (typically 5-10ml in an EDTA tube). Confirm specific requirements with the laboratory before booking.
MethodologyNext Generation Sequencing (NGS) is used to analyze the TBP gene for specific mutations associated with Spinocerebellar Ataxia Type 17.
PrivacyYour sample and report are handled confidentially. Ask the team how your information is stored and shared.
This test specifically analyzes the TBP gene for mutations associated with SCA17. It does not detect mutations in other genes that may cause similar symptoms. A negative result does not completely rule out SCA17 if the mutation is not detected by this method. Results should be interpreted in conjunction with clinical findings and family history.
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

SCA17 is a rare, inherited neurological disorder that primarily affects coordination and balance, leading to progressive difficulty with movement.
This test is recommended for individuals experiencing symptoms of SCA17, those with a family history of the condition, or those referred by a neurologist for genetic evaluation.
The test involves analyzing a blood sample for specific genetic mutations in the TBP gene using Next Generation Sequencing (NGS) technology.
Turnaround time varies. Please confirm the current estimated turnaround time with the laboratory before booking.
Results indicate the presence or absence of specific mutations in the TBP gene. A healthcare professional or genetic counselor should interpret the results in the context of your clinical history.
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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