SCA-8 Genetic Test (Spino Cerebellar Ataxia)

Description

SCA-8 Genetic Test (Spinocerebellar Ataxia) – Precision Genetic Testing for Inherited Movement Disorders

The SCA-8 (Spinocerebellar Ataxia Type 8) Genetic Test is a targeted molecular diagnostic assay that detects abnormal CTA/CTG trinucleotide repeat expansions in the ATXN8OS and ATXN8 genes — mutations linked to Spinocerebellar Ataxia Type 8, a rare, inherited neurodegenerative disorder affecting coordination, balance, and speech.

This condition belongs to a group of diseases known as autosomal dominant cerebellar ataxias (ADCAs), where symptoms typically appear in adulthood (30s–50s) and progressively worsen over time. While not as common as SCA1, SCA2, or SCA3, SCA-8 can cause significant disability if undiagnosed.

Offered at Lab Tests Dubai, this test uses advanced PCR and fragment analysis techniques on whole blood DNA to determine whether you carry a pathogenic expansion — providing clarity for diagnosis, family planning, and neurological management.

Whether you’re experiencing unexplained coordination issues or have a family history of ataxia, this test delivers answers when it matters most.

Why You Need This Test

You need the SCA-8 Genetic Test if:

• You or a family member has progressive difficulty walking, tremors, or poor coordination
• You’ve been diagnosed with idiopathic cerebellar ataxia and no cause has been found
• There’s a known history of spinocerebellar ataxia in your family
• You’re an adult with slurred speech, dizziness, or imbalance
• You’re considering genetic testing before having children
• You’re undergoing evaluation by a neurologist for movement disorders

This test helps confirm or rule out a genetic origin of your symptoms — guiding treatment, surveillance, and informed reproductive decisions.

Symptoms That Indicate This Test

Consider booking this test if you experience:

• Gradual loss of coordination (ataxia) while walking or using hands
• Slurred speech (dysarthria)
• Unsteady gait or frequent falls
• Abnormal eye movements (nystagmus)
• Muscle stiffness or tremors
• Family members with similar neurological decline
• A confirmed SCA mutation in a relative

Symptoms often begin subtly and progress slowly — making early detection critical for managing quality of life.

Natural Production (Clarification: Gene Repeats & Neurological Function)

Your body naturally produces proteins essential for cerebellar function, the part of the brain responsible for coordination and motor control. The SCA-8 gene region contains a repetitive DNA sequence (CTA/CTG repeats) that is normally stable and harmless.

However, when this segment expands beyond its normal range:

• Normal: <45 repeats
• Intermediate (mutable normal): 45–73
• Pathogenic (expanded): ≥74 (often >80)

… it interferes with RNA processing and leads to toxic gain-of-function effects in neurons — particularly in the cerebellum — causing progressive degeneration.

This test measures the exact number of CTG repeats and determines whether an expansion exists — even before symptoms appear.

What Happens If Untreated / Undiagnosed

Without diagnosis:

• Neurological symptoms may be misdiagnosed as MS, Parkinson’s, or aging
• Families remain unaware of their hereditary risk
• No access to support groups, physical therapy, or clinical trials
• Risk of passing the mutation to 50% of offspring (autosomal dominant inheritance)
• Delayed intervention reduces long-term independence

While there’s no cure yet, early identification allows for:

• Physical and speech therapy
• Fall prevention strategies
• Genetic counseling
• Participation in research and emerging therapies

How to Prepare for the Test

Preparation is simple:

• No fasting required
• Continue regular medications
• Avoid blood transfusions within 72 hours (can affect DNA results)

🔹 Sample Requirements:

• 4 mL whole blood (minimum 3 mL) collected in 2 Lavender-top (EDTA) tubes
• Must be labeled with full name, DOB, and collection date

🔹 Documentation Required (Mandatory):

• Completed Genomic Test Request Form (TRF)
• Signed Informed Consent Form
• Detailed clinical history including:
  • Age of symptom onset
  • Family history of ataxia or neurological disease
  • Neurological exam findings or MRI reports

Our team supports secure sample transport and documentation review. We offer home blood collection across Dubai & UAE via trained phlebotomists.

Test Overview

💡 Note: Negative result does not rule out other types of SCA; consider extended ataxia panel if needed.

FAQs

Q: Is SCA-8 inherited?
A: Yes. It follows autosomal dominant inheritance — each child of an affected parent has a 50% chance of inheriting the mutation.

Q: Can someone have the mutation but no symptoms?
A: Yes. Some individuals show reduced penetrance — they carry the mutation but never develop noticeable symptoms.

Q: Do I need a doctor’s referral?
A: Yes. A prescription and detailed clinical history are mandatory for processing.

Q: Is this test suitable for children?
A: Generally reserved for adults. Predictive testing in minors requires strict ethical guidelines and genetic counseling.

Q: Will insurance cover it?
A: Many private insurers cover neurogenetic testing with proper documentation. We assist with claim forms.

Q: Can this test be done after a blood transfusion?
A: Not recommended within 3 weeks — donor DNA may interfere with results.

Q: Is my data private?
A: Absolutely. All genetic information is encrypted, confidential, and used only for diagnostic purposes.

Understand Your Neurological Health Today. Is unexplained clumsiness or imbalance running in your family?
The SCA-8 Genetic Test gives you definitive answers, so you can understand your risk, protect your future, and take control of your neurological health. Book a test today.