Spinocerebellar Ataxia (SCA) Panel (1,2,3,6,7,10,12)

Spinocerebellar Ataxia (SCA) Panel (1, 2, 3, 6, 7, 10, 12): Price, Purpose, Range & Reports
 

Spinocerebellar Ataxia (SCA) refers to a large group of inherited, progressive neurological disorders that primarily cause degeneration in the cerebellum, the part of the brain responsible for balance and coordination. The result is Ataxia, which manifests as uncoordinated movement, poor balance, and difficulty with speech and eye movements. The SCA Panel (1, 2, 3, 6, 7, 10, 12) is a targeted genetic test designed to screen for the most common forms of SCA known to be caused by trinucleotide repeat expansions in specific genes. 
Identifying the exact genetic cause is crucial for accurate diagnosis, genetic counselling, and managing expectations regarding disease progression. If you are seeking the Spinocerebellar Ataxia (SCA) Panel price or a reliable lab near me, Apollo 24|7 offers comprehensive molecular diagnostics and accredited genetic testing services.

What is the Spinocerebellar Ataxia (SCA) Panel?

The Spinocerebellar Ataxia (SCA) Panel is a genetic test that screens for mutations linked to several inherited forms of spinocerebellar ataxia, a group of progressive neurological disorders that affect coordination, balance, and speech. These conditions are caused by changes in specific genes and are typically passed down in families through autosomal dominant inheritance.
This panel specifically tests for seven common SCA types (SCA 1, 2, 3, 6, 7, 10, and 12), each associated with distinct symptoms and genetic markers. By analysing a blood sample for known mutations, the test helps confirm a diagnosis, guide treatment decisions, and support genetic counselling for affected individuals and their families.

What is the Spinocerebellar Ataxia (SCA) Panel Price?

The Spinocerebellar Ataxia Panel price is reflective of the highly specialised nature of genetic testing. Determining the cost involves several factors:

•    Complexity of Analysis: Genetic testing, especially for trinucleotide repeats, requires advanced techniques like Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) and fragment analysis to accurately measure the number of repeats.
•    Scope of the Panel: Testing multiple distinct genes (7 in this panel) increases the complexity and cost compared to testing a single gene.
•    Laboratory Accreditation: Genetic tests must be conducted in accredited labs with stringent quality controls to ensure the accuracy of the DNA sequence analysis.
For the most current and location-specific Spinocerebellar Ataxia Panel price near me, please consult the Apollo 24|7 platform.

What is the Purpose of the Spinocerebellar Ataxia (SCA) Panel?

The primary purpose of the SCA Panel is diagnosis and family risk assessment:

•    Confirmation of Diagnosis: To definitively confirm the presence of one of the seven most common SCA mutations in a patient presenting with symptoms of progressive ataxia.
•    Differential Diagnosis: To differentiate SCA from other causes of movement disorders (e.g., Multiple Sclerosis, certain vitamin deficiencies, or non-inherited forms of ataxia).
•    Predictive Testing: To determine if an asymptomatic individual who has a family history of SCA has inherited the gene expansion.
•    Genetic Counselling: To help families understand the inheritance pattern (typically autosomal dominant), the risk to future children, and the likely course of the disease.

Who Should Get a Spinocerebellar Ataxia (SCA) Panel Done?

The Spinocerebellar Ataxia (SCA) Panel is a specialised genetic test used to detect inherited causes of progressive neurological symptoms. It is designed to identify repeat expansions in specific genes linked to various SCA subtypes, helping confirm a diagnosis and guide long-term care.
A neurologist or genetic counsellor may recommend this test for individuals who:
•    Exhibit signs of worsening coordination, balance problems, or frequent falls without a known cause
•    Develop slurred speech, tremors, or abnormal eye movements that progress over time
•    Experience vision loss in combination with movement difficulties
•    Have seizures alongside symptoms of ataxia, especially in populations with a higher prevalence of certain SCA types
•    Have a family history of spinocerebellar ataxia or unexplained neurological decline
•    Show early-onset symptoms of ataxia during childhood or adolescence
•    Present with cerebellar atrophy on brain imaging without a clear diagnosis
•    Seek genetic counselling to understand their risk of passing on hereditary conditions

This panel provides essential information for confirming the genetic basis of symptoms, supporting accurate diagnosis, and informing decisions about treatment and family planning.

Components of the Spinocerebellar Ataxia (SCA) Panel

The Spinocerebellar Ataxia Panel is a molecular diagnostic test that analyses DNA extracted from a blood sample. This particular panel focuses on identifying mutations (specifically, abnormal expansions of CAG or other triplet repeats) in the genes associated with the following seven common types of SCA:

The test confirms the diagnosis by looking for the abnormal elongation of the DNA segment, which is the underlying cause of disease for these specific SCA subtypes.

Understanding the Measured Components and Report

Unlike routine blood or urine tests that measure chemical levels, the Spinocerebellar Ataxia (SCA) Panel focuses on your DNA. Specifically, it looks at the number of repeated sequences (called trinucleotide repeats) within certain genes. These repeats are measured in each copy (allele) of the gene tested, and the result is reported as a repeat count rather than a concentration.
The interpretation of your results depends on how many repeats are found:

Important Note: Spinocerebellar ataxias are inherited and progressive neurological conditions, and interpreting genetic test results requires expert guidance. The number of trinucleotide repeats found in each gene can have serious implications not only for diagnosis but also for predicting when symptoms may begin and understanding risks for family members. It is essential that your results are reviewed by a qualified neurologist or genetic counsellor. They can explain what your repeat counts mean, discuss possible next steps, and help you make informed decisions about your health and future.

Preparation and Procedure for Spinocerebellar Ataxia (SCA) Panel

This is a straightforward blood collection procedure, but it requires an important pre-test discussion.

Is Fasting Required?

No, fasting is not required for the SCA genetic panel. You may eat and drink normally before having your blood drawn.

Should I Tell My Doctor About My Medications?

Yes, always inform your doctor about all medications and supplements. However, because this test analyses the fundamental genetic code (DNA), results are not affected by current medications, recent illnesses, or diet.

How is the Test Done?

The test requires a standard peripheral venipuncture (blood draw).

1.    A phlebotomist will clean a site on your arm, usually in the crook of the elbow.
2.    A small sample of blood is collected into a tube (typically an EDTA tube).
3.    The sample is then sent to the molecular diagnostics lab, where DNA is extracted and analysed to determine the number of triplet repeats in the targeted SCA genes.

What Time of Day Should I Take the Test?

The blood sample can be collected at any time during the laboratory's operating hours, as the test measures a fixed genetic marker which does not fluctuate hourly.

How Often Do I Need This Test?

This is a one-time test. Since your genetic makeup (DNA sequence) does not change, the results of this test are permanent. The panel will not need to be repeated unless a newer test covering additional SCA types or more sophisticated technology becomes available in the future.

Booking Spinocerebellar Ataxia (SCA) Panel Online & Checking Reports

Apollo 24|7 offers a seamless process for scheduling this important test and accessing your results.

A. How to Schedule the Test on Apollo 24|7

•    Visit the Apollo 24|7 platform and search for the Spinocerebellar Ataxia (SCA) Panel.
•    Review the latest price for your location and click 'Book Now'.
•    Select a convenient date and time for the sample collection.
•    Complete the secure online payment to confirm your booking.

B. How to Access Your Test Results Online

•    Log in to your Apollo 24|7 account via the website or mobile app.
•    Navigate to the 'Health Records' or 'My Reports' section.
•    Click on the completed SCA Panel report.
•    You can view and download the detailed report in PDF format, which must be shared with your physician or genetic counsellor for thorough interpretation and next steps.

Conclusion

The Spinocerebellar Ataxia (SCA) Panel, which includes types 1, 2, 3, 6, 7, 10, and 12, plays a critical role in diagnosing hereditary forms of ataxia. By detecting abnormal expansions of trinucleotide repeats in specific genes, this test provides clarity on the genetic basis of symptoms. A confirmed diagnosis not only helps patients understand their condition and its likely progression but also empowers families to make informed choices about care, genetic counselling, and future planning.