DNA Narcolepsy Risk Test
Identifies the HLA-DQB1*06:02 allele linked to a 7 to 25-fold heightened risk of narcolepsy.
- Simple buccal swab sample collection
- Discreet, Safe and Accurate
- Includes all laboratory fees
$195.00
DNA Tests
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About this test
Description
Narcolepsy is a neurological disorder characterized by excessive daytime sleepiness and uncontrollable episodes of falling asleep during the day. It’s important to note that this type of daytime sleepiness differs from a typical afternoon energy dip, as narcolepsy is rooted in neurological abnormalities rather than just sleep deprivation or caffeine consumption.
Narcolepsy affects an estimated 1 in 2,000 to 1 in 5,000 individuals, but only about 25% of cases receive an accurate diagnosis. Many people are initially misdiagnosed with psychiatric or emotional disorders. Furthermore, family members of affected individuals face a significantly elevated risk, ranging from 20 to 40 times higher, of developing narcolepsy themselves. Genetic analysis, specifically detecting the HLA-DQB1*06:02 allele associated with narcolepsy, can be a valuable diagnostic tool when combined with other clinical symptoms to ensure an accurate diagnosis of the condition.
Technical Specifications
The presence and combination of the HLA-DQB1*06:02 variant can significantly impact the risk of narcolepsy:
- Two copies of HLA-DQB1*06:02: Associated with a 7 to 25 times increased risk of narcolepsy, potentially even up to 250 times increased risk.
- One copy of HLA-DQB1*06:02 along with an alternative HLA-DQB1 allele: Linked to a 3 times increased risk, though this can vary depending on the risk or protective effect of the alternative allele.
- Absence of HLA-DQB1*06:02: Suggests a low risk of developing narcolepsy.
It’s crucial to note that genetics alone cannot be solely responsible for causing narcolepsy. Research indicates that 15 to 25 percent of individuals without the condition still carry the HLA-DQB1*06:02 variant. Furthermore, there are multiple other variants of the HLA-DQB1 gene that provide some protection against narcolepsy, adding complexity to the assessment of an individual’s risk.
100% Confidentiality
As our client, your privacy is extremely important to us, and we hold all information provided us in strict confidentiality. We will never sell, resell or make available your personal, or financial information to other companies or organizations. You will only be contacted using the method you choose, to confirm your order or to discuss your case. All communication is in the strictest confidence, and for that reason, we require you to create a password that will restrict access to your case. In addition, our privacy policies that have been established in our laboratory and offices safeguard the security of your case.