Test Price
2,800 AED✅ Home Collection Available
DARS2 Gene Leukoencephalopathy with Brainstem & Spinal Cord Involvement & Lactate Elevation (LBSL) Genetic Test in UAE | 2800 AED
Executive Summary & Core Metrics
99.9% Diagnostic Sensitivity via ISO 9001:2015 accredited NGS processing at DNA Labs UAE.
Premium Logistics: VIP Mobile Phlebotomy & Temperature-Controlled Cold-Chain Home Collection (daily 8 AM – 11 PM, all emirates).
Post-Test Clinical Guidance: Complimentary telephonic physician consultation for result interpretation by our Consultant Medical Genetics.
Instant Insurance Check: Direct billing verification via WhatsApp +971 54 548 8731 before sample collection.
Test Overview & Methodology
The DARS2 NGS test detects pathogenic variants in the DARS2 gene, confirming a diagnosis of LBSL — a rare autosomal recessive leukodystrophy characterized by progressive spasticity, ataxia, and elevated lactate. This definitive genetic analysis empowers precise clinical management and family planning for UAE families. The test employs whole-gene Next-Generation Sequencing with deletion and duplication analysis on a 2026-compliant bioinformatics pipeline.
| Feature | DNA Labs UAE DARS2 NGS Test | Closest Alternative (Sanger Sequencing) |
|---|---|---|
| Methodology | Next‑Generation Sequencing (NGS) with full gene coverage, deletion/duplication analysis & advanced bioinformatics pipeline | Single‑exon Sanger sequencing; limited to point mutations only |
| Turnaround Time | 3–4 weeks (with optional expedited reporting) | 6–8 weeks typical |
| Diagnostic Yield | >99% for all known DARS2 pathogenic variants including copy‑number changes and deep intronic mutations | Misses copy‑number changes and deep intronic mutations |
| Home Collection | Included (all UAE, 8 AM–11 PM, VIP Mobile Phlebotomy) | Often unavailable or limited to clinic visit |
Physician Insight & Safety Protocols
“A positive DARS2 result confirms the diagnosis and allows early intervention, but clinical correlation with brain MRI and serial lactate measurements is essential. This test is highly accurate using NGS methodology; however, a negative result does not exclude other genetic leukoencephalopathies. I strongly recommend post‑test genetic counselling for comprehensive family care and reproductive planning.” — Lina Osama Zaki Quteineh, Consultant Medical Genetics, DHA Registration ID: 9294403
Advisory & Medication Safety
Do not discontinue or adjust prescribed medication without consulting your treating physician. Results from this genetic test should be interpreted by a qualified clinical geneticist or neurologist experienced in leukodystrophy disorders. Always discuss the implications of genetic findings with a board‑certified specialist before making any treatment decisions.
Exclusion Criteria & Contraindications
- Inability to provide a blood or DNA sample due to medical contraindication.
- Absence of clinical indication or referral from a qualified physician (Neurologist, Clinical Geneticist, or Medical Researcher).
- Uncontrolled bleeding disorder without prior haematology clearance.
- Emergency red flags such as new‑onset seizures, acute neurological deterioration, signs of raised intracranial pressure require immediate hospital evaluation before any outpatient sample collection.
Patient FAQ & Clinical Guidance
1. What is the DARS2 gene test and why is it performed?
SNIPPET: This NGS‑based genetic test identifies mutations in the DARS2 gene causing leukoencephalopathy with brainstem and spinal cord involvement and elevated lactate (LBSL). It confirms the clinical diagnosis and guides family planning and management strategies for affected families.
2. How is the sample collected and what is the turnaround time?
SNIPPET: A simple blood draw is collected at your home by a DHA‑licensed phlebotomist using ISO‑certified cold‑chain transport. Results are delivered within 3 to 4 weeks through our accredited NGS laboratory at DNA Labs UAE.
3. Is this test covered by UAE insurance and how do I confirm coverage?
SNIPPET: Most UAE health insurers recognize medically necessary genetic testing for leukoencephalopathy as a covered benefit. Contact our billing team via WhatsApp at +971 54 548 8731 for direct pre‑authorisation verification before your sample collection appointment.
4. Which specialists should interpret my DARS2 test results?
SNIPPET: Results should be reviewed by a Consultant Medical Genetics, a Neurologist with expertise in leukodystrophies, or a Clinical Geneticist. DNA Labs UAE provides a complimentary telephonic consultation with our genetic specialist after results are issued.
5. What does a negative or inconclusive result mean?
SNIPPET: A negative result significantly reduces the likelihood of DARS2‑related LBSL but does not exclude other genetic leukoencephalopathies. Inconclusive results may require further testing such as whole‑exome sequencing or biochemical metabolite analysis. Your genetic counsellor will discuss all next steps.
UAE Regulatory & Data Privacy Adherence
DNA Labs UAE operates under the governance of the Dubai Health Authority (DHA) and adheres to the highest standards of data protection and clinical safety in the United Arab Emirates.
- Data Protection: Fully compliant with Federal Decree-Law No. 45 of 2021 on Personal Data Protection (PDPL) ensuring all genetic data is encrypted, access‑controlled, and processed lawfully.
- Health Information Governance: Adheres to Federal Law No. 2 of 2019 Concerning the Use of Information and Communication Technology in Health Fields, governing the secure handling of electronic medical records and diagnostic data.
- Medical Liability & Patient Consent: All clinical testing, sample collection, and result disclosure follow the standards set by Federal Decree-Law No. 4 of 2016 on Medical Liability, ensuring informed consent and patient safety.
- Facility Licensing: DHA Facility License Number 1143 issued to Premises 105, Floor 1, Building 33, Dubai Healthcare City, Dubai, UAE.
- Quality Management: ISO 9001:2015 certified (Cert. INT/EGQ/2509DA/3139) for laboratory testing and diagnostic services.
Clinical & Logistical Metadata
| Test Name | DARS2 Gene Sequencing (LBSL) – NGS Full Gene Analysis |
| Price (AED) | 2,800 AED |
| Turnaround Time | 3–4 Weeks (expedited reports available on request) |
| Sample Type / Matrix | Peripheral Whole Blood (EDTA) or Extracted DNA |
| Methodology Used | Next-Generation Sequencing (NGS) – Full Gene Coverage with Deletion/Duplication Analysis |
| ICD-10-CM Code | E74.81 |
| LOINC Code | 81369-8 |
| DHA Facility License & Address | License: 1143 | Premises 105, Floor 1, Building 33, Dubai Healthcare City, Dubai, UAE |
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