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Medical information Clinical review pending

Genetic Testing

WDR45 Gene Neurodegeneration with Brain Iron Accumulation Type 5 Genetic Test

Genetic test using Next Generation Sequencing (NGS) to detect mutations in the WDR45 gene, associated with a rare neurodegenerative disorder involving brain iron accumulation. Recommended for individuals with relevant family history or symptoms.

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), Extracted DNA, or One drop of blood on an FTA card.
Results
Approximately 3 to 4 weeks. Confirm with the laboratory before booking.
Preparation
A clinical history review and genetic counseling session, including a pedigree chart of affected family members, is recommended before the test.
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 WDR45 Gene Neurodegeneration with Brain Iron Accumulation Type 5 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 Neurodegeneration with Brain Iron Accumulation (NBIA), such as movement disorders or cognitive decline.
  • ✓Family history of NBIA or related neurological disorders.
  • ✓Patients undergoing evaluation for rare neurological conditions.
  • ✓Genetic counseling for individuals with potential risk factors.
  • ✓Confirmation of diagnosis in suspected cases.
02

In plain language

What this test helps you understand

This test helps identify mutations in the WDR45 gene, which are associated with Neurodegeneration with Brain Iron Accumulation Type 5 (NBIA5). Identifying these mutations can confirm a diagnosis, aid in understanding the cause of neurological symptoms, and inform genetic counseling for affected individuals and their families.
The WDR45 Gene Neurodegeneration with Brain Iron Accumulation Type 5 NGS Genetic DNA Test is a specialized diagnostic tool. It uses advanced Next Generation Sequencing (NGS) technology to identify specific genetic mutations within the WDR45 gene. These mutations are linked to a rare type of neurodegenerative disorder characterized by the buildup of iron in the brain. This test is important for individuals who may be at risk due to family history or who are experiencing symptoms suggestive of neurological issues. Understanding the genetic basis can help healthcare providers in diagnosis and management planning. This test can provide valuable information for individuals and families affected by or at risk of this condition.
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 →
PreparationA clinical history review and genetic counseling session, including a pedigree chart of affected family members, is recommended before the test.
SampleBlood sample (EDTA tube), Extracted DNA, or One drop of blood on an FTA card.
MethodologyNext Generation Sequencing (NGS) is used to analyze the WDR45 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 WDR45 gene. It does not detect mutations in other genes associated with neurodegeneration. A negative result does not completely rule out a genetic cause for the symptoms. 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

This is a rare genetic disorder characterized by the progressive accumulation of iron in the brain, leading to neurological symptoms like movement problems and cognitive decline.
Individuals experiencing symptoms like movement disorders or cognitive decline, or those with a family history of similar neurological conditions, may be candidates for this test.
A sample can be collected as a blood draw (EDTA tube), extracted DNA, or a single drop of blood on an FTA card.
The typical turnaround time for results is about 3 to 4 weeks from when the sample is received by the lab.
A positive result indicates the presence of mutations in the WDR45 gene associated with the condition. It's important to discuss the results with a doctor or genetic counselor.
Yes, genetic counseling before and after testing is highly recommended to understand the test, its implications, and the meaning of the results.
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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