Test Price
2,800 AED✅ Home Collection Available
QARS1 Gene Sequencing Test (Microcephaly, Progressive Seizures, Cerebral-Cerebellar Atrophy) in Dubai, UAE | 2,800 AED | DNA Labs UAE
Executive Summary & Core Metrics
Accuracy Guarantee: 99.9% Diagnostic Sensitivity via ISO 15189:2023 Certified NGS Pipeline.
Premium Logistics: Hospital-Grade Cold-Chain Home Collection (8 AM – 11 PM) by VIP Mobile Phlebotomists.
Clinical Guidance: Complimentary Telephonic Post-Test Clinical Interpretation with a Consultant Medical Geneticist.
Insurance: Direct Billing Verification via WhatsApp +971 54 548 8731.
Test Overview & Methodology
This Next-Generation Sequencing (NGS) test analyzes the QARS1 gene to detect pathogenic variants causing microcephaly, progressive seizures, and cerebral-cerebellar atrophy. It provides definitive molecular confirmation for infants and children presenting with severe neurodevelopmental delay, enabling early intervention and family counselling. The assay employs targeted enrichment with full exon and intron-exon boundary coverage, ensuring detection of single nucleotide variants, small insertions and deletions, and deep intronic variants that may be missed by broader screening approaches.
Why This Test Stands Out
| Feature | Our QARS1 NGS Test | Closest Alternative (Whole Exome Sequencing) |
|---|---|---|
| Diagnostic Precision | 99.9% analytical sensitivity & specificity for QARS1 | Broad screen; may miss deep intronic variants |
| Method | Next-Generation Sequencing (NGS) with full gene coverage | Whole Exome Sequencing via third-party labs |
| Turnaround Time | 3 – 4 Weeks | 6 – 8 Weeks |
Physician Insight & Safety Protocols
“As a Consultant Medical Geneticist, I understand the profound uncertainty families face when a child presents with unexplained neurodevelopmental regression, microcephaly, and refractory seizures. The QARS1 gene test offers a precise molecular answer that can bring clarity to a often prolonged diagnostic journey. This information empowers you and your clinical team to pursue targeted therapeutic strategies, informed reproductive planning, and connect with support networks. Always interpret genetic results in conjunction with a complete clinical evaluation by your paediatric neurologist.”
— Lina Osama Zaki Quteineh, Consultant Medical Genetics, DHA Registration ID: 9294403
⚠️ Medication Advisory
Do not discontinue any prescribed anti-epileptic or neuroprotective medication without consulting your treating physician. This test is a diagnostic aid and does not replace ongoing medical management or emergency care.
Exclusion Criteria & Emergency Red Flags
- Exclusion: This test is not intended for asymptomatic adults without a family history of QARS1-related disorder; it is not a general screening tool.
- Exclusion: Patients with acute febrile illness or recent blood transfusion may require rescheduling to avoid assay interference.
- Red Flag: Sudden worsening of seizures, loss of previously acquired developmental milestones, or signs of increased intracranial pressure (severe headache, vomiting, bulging fontanelle) require immediate emergency medical attention and are not managed by outpatient genetic testing.
Patient FAQ & Clinical Guidance
1. What is the QARS1 gene test and who needs it?
The QARS1 gene test is a next-generation sequencing analysis that identifies disease-causing mutations in the QARS1 gene, responsible for microcephaly, seizures, and cerebral atrophy. It is recommended for infants and children with neurodevelopmental delay, progressive microcephaly, and early-onset epilepsy of unknown aetiology.
2. How is the sample collected for this genetic test in the UAE?
A certified phlebotomist collects a small peripheral blood sample (2–5 mL in EDTA) or a dried blood spot on an FTA card during a scheduled home visit. The specimen is transported in an ISO-certified temperature-controlled cold chain to our DHA-licensed laboratory at DNA Labs UAE.
3. What do the results mean for my child's treatment?
Positive results confirm a QARS1-related neurodevelopmental disorder, enabling your medical team to tailor anti-epileptic therapy, early intervention programs, and informed genetic counselling for future pregnancies. Negative results do not completely rule out all genetic causes and may warrant broader testing.
4. How long does it take to get the results?
The standard turnaround time is 3 to 4 weeks from sample receipt, as the analysis requires full gene sequencing, bioinformatic processing, and clinical variant interpretation by our genetics team.
5. Is genetic counselling required before testing?
Yes, pre-test genetic counselling is mandatory. Our Consultant Medical Geneticist will discuss the scope of the test, possible outcomes, and implications for the family. A post-test counselling session is also provided to explain results and guide next steps.
UAE Regulatory & Data Privacy Adherence
This service is provided in full compliance with:
- Federal Decree-Law No. 45 of 2021 on Personal Data Protection (PDPL)
- Federal Law No. 2 of 2019 Concerning the Use of Information and Communication Technology in Health Fields
- Federal Decree-Law No. 4 of 2016 on Medical Liability
Our facility is ISO 9001:2015 certified (Cert: INT/EGQ/2509DA/3139). All genetic data is encrypted, access-controlled, and processed in accordance with UAE federal health data governance standards.
Clinical & Logistical Metadata
| Test Name | QARS1 Gene Sequencing Test (Microcephaly, Progressive Seizures, Cerebral-Cerebellar Atrophy) |
| Price (AED) | 2,800 AED |
| Turnaround Time | 3 – 4 Weeks |
| Sample Type / Matrix | Peripheral Whole Blood (EDTA) or FTA Card |
| Methodology Used | Next-Generation Sequencing (NGS) – Full Gene Coverage |
| ICD-10-CM Code | Q02, G93.89, G40.819 |
| LOINC Code | 55233-1 |
| DHA Facility License & Laboratory Address | DHA Facility License No: 1143 | Premises 105, Floor 1, Building 33, Dubai Healthcare City, Dubai, UAE | DNA Labs UAE |
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