Beta Thalassemia DNA Testing

Find out if you inherited the mutations in the HBB gene which cause Beta Thalassemia

Find out if you are at risk - get tested

Test Type Testing Time Fee

All orders received before 3pm PST / 6pm EST are shipped out the same business day. All orders received after 3pm PST / 6pm EST or on weekends or holidays are shipped out the following business day. 24/7 online status check and account management available for all tests.

About the Beta Thalassemia DNA Test

The Beta Thalassemia DNA test identifies the common deletions and nucleotide variants seen in the HBB gene. This test will indicate whether the HBB gene is normal (β), carries a β+ mutation that results in reduced β-globin production or carries a β0 mutation (no β-globin production).

What is the HBB gene?

The HBB gene encodes the β-globin component of hemoglobin. Normal adult hemoglobin (HbA) is composed of two α-globin chains and two β-globin chains. The HBB gene is located on Chromosome 11. We inherit one copy of HBB from each parent. The Beta Thalassemia DNA Test will determine whether or not each copy of the HBB gene contains a mutation that causes β-thalassemia.

Test Specifications

Age Limit None. This test can be taken at any age.

Collection Method Buccal swabs. The test kit contains buccal swabs and instructions for collecting a buccal swab sample from inside the mouth.

Specimen Requirements Four buccal swabs, rubbed inside the mouth against the cheek for 15 seconds.

Testing Time 1 – 2 weeks.

Alleles Tested Genetic mutations in the HBB gene.

Testing Methodology Sequence Based Typing (SBT)

Sample Handling DNA test kits do not have an expiry date and can be used at any time. Once the DNA sample is collected, it must be returned to the laboratory for testing within three months of collection. No refrigeration is required. Store at room temperature.

Limitations This test will only look at the most common mutations in HBB that are associated with β-thalassemia. There are other mutations associated with β-thalassemia that are not tested in this assay. The results of this assay should be interpreted in conjunction with symptoms, clinical findings and medical and family history.

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