Test Price
2,800 AED✅ Home Collection Available
SLC24A4 Genetic Test (Oculocutaneous Albinism Type 6 & Pigmentation Disorders) in UAE – 2800 AED – DHA-Certified
Executive Summary & Core Metrics
- Accuracy Guarantee: 99.9% diagnostic sensitivity via ISO 9001:2015 accredited next-generation sequencing (NGS) for complete SLC24A4 coding region and deep intronic variants.
- Premium Logistics: VIP mobile phlebotomy and temperature-controlled cold-chain home collection available daily from 8 AM to 11 PM across Dubai and all UAE emirates.
- Clinical Guidance: Complimentary telephonic post-test genetic counseling session with a consultant medical geneticist for result interpretation and family planning.
- Insurance: Direct billing verification via WhatsApp +971 54 548 8731; major UAE insurers accepted.
- Regulatory: DHA-licensed laboratory (Facility License No. 1143) operating under UAE Federal Law No. 2 of 2019 for health information and Federal Decree-Law No. 45 of 2021 (PDPL).
Test Overview & Methodology
This SLC24A4 gene sequencing test employs Illumina NovaSeq X Plus technology to detect pathogenic and likely pathogenic variants associated with oculocutaneous albinism type 6 (OCA6) and broader skin, hair, and eye pigmentation abnormalities. The assay covers the entire coding region, exon-intron boundaries, and selected deep intronic regions to maximize diagnostic yield for individuals presenting with unexplained hypopigmentation, iris transilluminance, and reduced visual acuity. A definitive molecular diagnosis enables targeted management, sun-protection planning, and recurrence risk assessment for families in the UAE.
| Feature | Our Test (DHA-Certified) | Closest Alternative |
|---|---|---|
| Precision | 99.9% NGS coverage of entire coding region, including deep intronic and splice-site variants | Sanger sequencing of selected exons; may miss novel or deep mutations (>20% false negative rate) |
| Method | Illumina NovaSeq X Plus – validated for germline variant detection with >30x mean depth | Capillary electrophoresis, limited to known hot-spot analysis; lower scalability |
| Turnaround Time | 3–4 Weeks | 4–6 Weeks (often extended due to referral to external labs) |
Physician Insight & Safety Protocols
“Interpreting SLC24A4 variants requires careful correlation with the patient’s complete skin, hair, and ophthalmic phenotype. A genetic finding of uncertain significance does not equate to a diagnosis of oculocutaneous albinism type 6. In my practice, I emphasize the value of comprehensive clinical phenotyping, family pedigree analysis, and transparent pre-test counseling. Our team at DNA Labs UAE provides structured post-test follow-up to ensure every family understands recurrence risks and preventive sun-protection strategies, including regular dermatological and ophthalmological surveillance for those with confirmed OCA6.”
— Lina Osama Zaki Quteineh, Consultant Medical Genetics, DHA Registration ID: 9294403
Essential Guidance Before Testing
Do not discontinue prescribed depigmentation therapies, sunscreens, or ophthalmic treatments without consulting your supervising specialist. Genetic test results provide diagnostic clarity but do not replace ongoing clinical management. Any adjustment in your photoprotection regimen or topical therapy must be supervised by a dermatologist.
Safety Exclusion Criteria & Urgent Referral Indicators
- Exclusion: Active systemic infection, recent blood transfusion (<4 weeks), inability to provide informed consent, or ongoing participation in a conflicting clinical trial.
- Minors: Genetic testing for individuals under 18 years requires parental or legal guardian consent in full compliance with Federal Decree-Law No. 4 of 2016 on Medical Liability and DHA pediatric genetic testing guidelines.
- Urgent Referral Indicators: Sudden vision loss, acute photosensitivity with skin blistering, or new-onset nystagmus warrant immediate emergency assessment. A positive molecular result alone does not constitute a medical emergency; clinical correlation with a physician is essential.
Patient FAQ & Clinical Guidance
1. Who should consider this SLC24A4 gene test in the UAE?
Individuals with unexplained hypopigmentation of skin, hair, and eyes — particularly those suspected of having oculocutaneous albinism type 6 based on clinical examination by a dermatologist or ophthalmologist — should consider this test for definitive molecular diagnosis. It is also recommended for families with a history of autosomal recessive pigmentation disorders and for couples planning consanguineous marriage who wish to understand their carrier status.
2. How is the sample collected, and what pre-test steps are required?
A simple venous blood draw (EDTA tube) or a capillary blood drop on an FTA card is collected by our DHA-licensed phlebotomy team during a scheduled home visit. Pre-test genetic counseling is mandatory and includes a detailed three-generation family pedigree to guide variant interpretation. No special dietary preparation is required; please inform the phlebotomist of any anticoagulant medications.
3. How long do results take, and what post-test support is provided?
Results are delivered within 3–4 weeks from sample receipt. The comprehensive clinical report is reviewed by a consultant medical geneticist and includes variant classification (pathogenic, likely pathogenic, VUS, or benign). A complimentary telephonic genetic counseling session is offered to discuss findings, recurrence risks, and preventive eye-and-skin care recommendations tailored to the patient’s specific genotype.
UAE Regulatory & Data Privacy Adherence
Your privacy and data security are protected under UAE federal law. DNA Labs UAE complies 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. All genetic data is encrypted in transit and at rest, processed within in-country infrastructure, and never shared with third parties without explicit patient consent. Clinical safety and patient consent protocols adhere to Federal Decree-Law No. 4 of 2016 on Medical Liability. Our DHA Facility License No. 1143 is issued under Dubai Healthcare City Authority – Regulatory, ensuring continuous oversight and inspection.
Clinical & Logistical Metadata
| Test Name | SLC24A4 Genetic Test (Oculocutaneous Albinism Type 6 & Pigmentation Disorders) |
| Price (AED) | 2,800 AED |
| Turnaround Time | 3–4 Weeks |
| Sample Type / Matrix | Peripheral whole blood (EDTA tube) or capillary blood (FTA card) – VIP Mobile Phlebotomy & Temperature-Controlled Cold-Chain Home Collection available daily from 8 AM to 11 PM |
| Methodology Used | Next-Generation Sequencing (NGS) – Illumina NovaSeq X Plus, full coding region and deep intronic coverage |
| ICD-10-CM Code | E70.319 (Oculocutaneous albinism, unspecified), E70.39 (Other specified oculocutaneous albinism) |
| LOINC Code | 83435-2 (Hereditary oculocutaneous albinism gene analysis panel) |
| DHA Facility License & Address | License No. 1143 — Premises 105, Floor 1, Building 33, Dubai Healthcare City, Dubai, UAE |
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