An individual’s genetics play a part in over 50 per cent of epilepsy cases. With an estimated 200,000 Canadians living with epilepsy, many are unaware if there is a link between their genetics and their disorder. A new cutting-edge test created by a team of Canadian researchers at London Health Sciences Centre (LHSC), and offered across North America by Dynacare, is helping epilepsy patients uncover if they have an underlying genetic cause of disease, and to use this information to better inform treatment.
The
Epilepsy Gene Panel test is offered by the Dynacare Impact Genetics lab out of Bowmanville, Ontario with interpretation provided by the LHSC team. The test comes in two forms: the Comprehensive Panel, which looks at 69 genes associated with epilepsy; and the Management Impact Panel which targets 16 genes associated with treatable metabolic disorders in which seizures can occur.
The Epilepsy Gene Panel tests provide a highly accurate assessment of changes in genes associated with epileptic disorders. It is important for those living with epilepsy to discover if they have an underlying genetic condition causing their epilepsy so they can:
- explain comorbidities (the simultaneous presence of two diseases or conditions in a patient);
- inform prognosis;
- define risks to relatives and future children;
- manage their epilepsy better, and;
- influence treatment choices.
The test was developed by Dr. Bekim Sadikovic and the molecular genetics team at the London Health Sciences Centre (LHSC). All patient samples (except Ontario which continues to be tested at LHSC) are sent to Dynacare for testing and informatics and reporting are provided by LHSC. The test is provided under CAP/CLIA and ISOO quality standards and sold by Dynacare, a LabCorp company.
Dynacare is continually expanding its internationally-recognized menu of genetic test solutions, and is searching for additional Canadian innovations and partnerships to bring new and unique genetic test solutions to the Canadian, US and international markets.
For more information contact:
Franny Jewett
Dynacare
JewettF@dynacare.ca
877.624.9769 x 5510