Test Price
2,800 AEDโ Home Collection Available
GCK Gene Hyperinsulinemic Hypoglycemia Type 3 Genetic Test in UAE | 2800 AED | DHA Licensed
Executive Summary & Core Metrics
Test Overview & Methodology
The GCK gene test identifies pathogenic variants causing hyperinsulinemic hypoglycemia type 3 (familial hyperinsulinism), an inherited metabolic disorder characterized by excessive insulin secretion and dangerously low blood sugar. This next-generation sequencing (NGS) analysis examines the entire coding region and splice sites of the GCK gene with high depth of coverage, enabling precise molecular diagnosis and guiding personalized dietary or pharmacological management as well as cascade screening of at-risk family members.
| Feature | Our Test (NGS) | Sanger Sequencing (Alternative) |
|---|---|---|
| Methodology | Next-Generation Sequencing (NGS) โ full coding region & splice site analysis | Single fragment analysis per reaction |
| Clinical Sensitivity | >99% for single nucleotide variants, insertions, deletions, and CNVs | ~85% (may miss large deletions/duplications and mosaic variants) |
| Turnaround Time | 3 to 4 Weeks | 6 to 8 Weeks |
| ISO Accreditation | ISO 9001:2015 (Cert: INT/EGQ/2509DA/3139) | Varies; often not certified |
Physician Insight & Safety Protocols
โConfirmation of a GCK pathogenic variant provides the molecular cornerstone for diagnosing hyperinsulinemic hypoglycemia type 3, a condition frequently misattributed to other metabolic or neurologic disorders. As a Consultant Medical Geneticist, I strongly advise that these results be interpreted within the complete clinical and biochemical picture โ including paired glucose and insulin levels โ and never in isolation. Early, precise genetic confirmation empowers families with actionable recurrence risk counselling, cascade screening, and targeted therapeutic strategies that reduce unnecessary interventions and hospitalizations.โ
โ Lina Osama Zaki Quteineh, Consultant Medical Genetics | DHA Registration ID: 9294403
Medication Advisory & Pretest Requirements
โ Medication Warning
Do not discontinue prescribed medication without consulting your doctor. Genetic test results are not a substitute for ongoing medical supervision. Abrupt cessation of diazoxide, octreotide, or other hypoglycemia medications can precipitate life-threatening hypoglycemia. A comprehensive clinical history including documentation of hypoglycemic episodes and family history of metabolic disorders is mandatory prior to sample collection. Pre-test genetic counselling is required to draw a detailed pedigree chart of affected family members.
Exclusion Criteria & Emergency Red Flags
Exclusion Criteria
- Minors (under 18 years) without documented parental or legal guardian consent as mandated by UAE healthcare regulations.
- Individuals who have not received pre-test genetic counselling, required per UAE clinical governance standards.
- Patients unwilling to share relevant clinical history and three-generation pedigree necessary for accurate result interpretation.
- Any condition that contraindicates venous blood draw (e.g., severe coagulopathy without medical clearance).
Emergency Red Flags โ Seek Immediate Medical Attention
- Severe hypoglycemia (blood glucose below 50 mg/dL) with loss of consciousness or seizures.
- Symptoms of neuroglycopenia: confusion, blurred vision, slurred speech, or inability to wake.
- Rapid weight loss, persistent vomiting, or lethargy in a child with known hyperinsulinism.
Patient FAQ & Clinical Guidance
1. What is the GCK gene hyperinsulinemic hypoglycemia type 3 test, and why is it performed?
This test detects disease-causing mutations in the GCK gene to confirm congenital hyperinsulinism, enabling tailored treatment and accurate family screening. It analyzes the entire GCK gene using next-generation sequencing, looking for single nucleotide variants, small insertions or deletions, and copy number changes that cause unregulated insulin release. Confirming the genetic subtype helps differentiate from other forms of hypoglycemia and guides the use of medications like diazoxide or surgical intervention. A positive result also allows cascade testing of family members to identify at-risk individuals before symptoms appear.
2. How is the sample collected, and do I need to prepare?
A simple blood draw from your arm, extracted DNA, or a finger-prick onto an FTA card is all that is required, with no fasting or special preparation needed. Our certified phlebotomist will collect the sample at your home or office between 8 AM and 11 PM, using sterile, temperature-controlled transport to preserve DNA integrity. You should continue all prescribed medications unless your doctor advises otherwise. Ensure you have your Emirates ID and any prior genetic reports ready for the logistics team upon scheduling.
3. When will I receive my results, and how do I understand them?
Results are ready within 3 to 4 weeks and include a detailed clinical interpretation by our genetic counsellors along with a complimentary telephonic consultation with a Consultant Medical Geneticist. You will receive a secure digital report listing any identified GCK variants classified by pathogenicity (pathogenic, likely pathogenic, or variant of uncertain significance). A follow-up session explains the implications for your health, reproductive risks, and ongoing monitoring needs. For ambiguous findings, further family studies may be recommended at no additional cost for two first-degree relatives.
UAE Regulatory & Data Privacy Adherence
All genetic data processing, storage, and transmission at DNA Labs UAE strictly comply with Federal Decree-Law No. 45 of 2021 on Personal Data Protection (PDPL) and Federal Law No. 2 of 2019 Concerning the Use of Information and Communication Technology in Health Fields. Clinical safety and patient consent procedures follow Federal Decree-Law No. 4 of 2016 on Medical Liability. Genetic information is treated as highly sensitive data: encrypted at rest and in transit, accessed only by authorized licensed personnel, and never shared with third parties without explicit written consent. Our DHA-licensed facility undergoes annual audits to maintain full compliance with UAE data protection and healthcare regulations.
Clinical & Logistical Metadata
| Test Name | GCK Gene Hyperinsulinemic Hypoglycemia Type 3 Genetic Test (Next-Generation Sequencing) |
| Price (AED) | 2,800 AED |
| Turnaround Time | 3 to 4 Weeks |
| Sample Type / Matrix | Whole Blood (EDTA tube), Extracted DNA, or FTA Card Blood Spot |
| Methodology Used | Next-Generation Sequencing (NGS) โ Full Coding Region & Splice Site Analysis |
| ICD-10-CM Code | E16.1 |
| LOINC Code | 82007-5 |
| DHA Facility License & Address | License Number: 1143 | Premises 105, Floor 1, Building 33, Dubai Healthcare City, Dubai, UAE | DNA Labs UAE |
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