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DCX Gene Lissencephaly/Subcortical laminal heteropia, X-linked NGS Genetic Test

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DCX Gene Lissencephaly/Subcortical laminal heteropia, X-linked NGS Genetic Test

Short Name: DCX Gene NGS Genetic Test

Also known as: DCX Gene Sequencing, X-linked lissencephaly genetic test, Subcortical laminal heteropia NGS test

DCX Gene Lissencephaly/Subcortical laminal heteropia, X-linked NGS Genetic Test test available at DNA Labs India for ₹20,000. Uses Next-Generation Sequencing (NGS) on Blood or Extracted DNA or One drop Blood on FTA Card samples. Results in Reports will be shared within 3 to 4 weeks of the sample reaching the lab. You will receive an email/SMS notification when the report is available.. Free home collection in 300+ cities across India.

Genetic Molecular Diagnosis🏠 Home Collection

🩺 Medically Reviewed By

Overview

To detect mutations in the DCX gene for the diagnosis of X-linked lissencephaly and subcortical band heterotopia, to confirm clinical or MRI findings, for carrier detection in at-risk females, and to provide accurate recurrence-risk information for affected families.

Test Code
4214
CPT Code
81479
ICD Code
Q04.8
Price
₹20,000
Sample Type
Blood or Extracted DNA or One drop Blood on FTA Card
Result Time
Reports will be shared within 3 to 4 weeks of the sample reaching the lab. You will receive an email/SMS notification when the report is available.
Fasting Required
No
Method
Next-Generation Sequencing (NGS)
Step 1

Sample Collection

No special preparation is required for this genetic test. You may eat and drink normally. Please inform your doctor about any medications, prior genetic tests, or if you have had a bone marrow transplant (as it could affect the DNA result).

Method: Venipuncture or Fingerstick (for FTA card)

Step 2

Laboratory Analysis

A trained phlebotomist will collect a blood sample from a vein in your arm. For FTA card sampling, a small finger prick will be performed and a drop of blood placed on the card. The procedure takes only a few minutes.

Step 3

Report Delivery

You can resume your normal activities immediately. A small bruise may appear at the venipuncture site but will resolve on its own. No specific post-test care is needed for FTA card collection.

Timeline: Reports will be shared within 3 to 4 weeks of the sample reaching the lab. You will receive an email/SMS notification when the report is available.

Patient Instructions

1
Before the Test:Before the test, you will receive genetic counseling. The healthcare provider will explain the benefits, limitations, and possible outcomes of the test. A consent form will be provided and must be signed prior to sample collection.
2
During the Test:During the test, a small venous blood sample is drawn. For FTA card, a fingerstick is done. The procedure is quick and minimally painful. After collection, the sample is sent to the laboratory for NGS analysis.
3
After the Test:After the test, you can return to normal activities. The laboratory will process the sample and report in 3-4 weeks. Once the report is ready, it will be uploaded to our online portal and emailed. A genetic counseling session will be scheduled to explain the results and their implications.

About This Test

Who Should Get This Test

To detect mutations in the DCX gene for the diagnosis of X-linked lissencephaly and subcortical band heterotopia, to confirm clinical or MRI findings, for carrier detection in at-risk females, and to provide accurate recurrence-risk information for affected families.

How to Prepare

  • Carry a valid government-issued photo ID for verification
  • If you have had a prior genetic test, please bring the previous report for correlation
  • For FTA card collection, ensure the blood spot is completely dry and free from contamination before sealing
  • Avoid sharing the patient's identity information on the sample container

Doctor's Notes

Reviewed by — MBBS, MD (Medical Genetics) · Reg. No. 8532

"As a neurologist, I strongly recommend genetic testing for individuals with unexplained epilepsy, intellectual disability, or imaging findings suggestive of lissencephaly or subcortical band heterotopia. This NGS test for the DCX gene provides definitive diagnosis and supports informed family planning and genetic counseling."

Last medically reviewed: September 7, 2026

Test Parameters & Specifications

Sample TypeBlood or Extracted DNA or One drop Blood on FTA Card
Sample Volume5 mL whole blood in EDTA or one blood spot on FTA card
ContainerEDTA vacutainer or FTA card
Collection MethodVenipuncture or Fingerstick (for FTA card)

Sample Stability

Whole blood (EDTA): 24-48 hours at room temperature
Whole blood (EDTA): 5-7 days at 2-8°C
Extracted DNA: stable for several months at -20°C
FTA card: stable for weeks at room temperature in a dry environment
Sample Rejection Criteria:
  • Hemolyzed or clotted blood samples
  • Incorrectly labeled or unlabeled samples
  • Samples received without consent form or physician referral
  • Samples contaminated or not stored appropriately

Understanding Your Results

A pathogenic variant in the DCX gene confirms the diagnosis of DCX-related lissencephaly/subcortical band heterotopia in a symptomatic individual. In at-risk female relatives, a positive result indicates carrier status. Negative results reduce the likelihood of DCX involvement but do not completely exclude the condition because mutations may be present in regions not analyzed or in other genes.
📊

Pathogenic variant detected

Confirms the diagnosis in symptomatic individuals; identifies carriers in asymptomatic female relatives.

📊

Likely pathogenic variant detected

Highly likely causative; clinical correlation and family segregation studies are recommended.

📊

Variant of uncertain significance (VUS)

Insufficient evidence to determine causality. Additional familial testing or functional studies may be needed.

📊

No pathogenic variant detected

No evidence of a DCX gene mutation. Consider testing other genes or comprehensive lissencephaly panels.

⚠️ When to Consult a Doctor:

Consult a neurologist or clinical geneticist if you or your child have unexplained seizures, intellectual disability, delayed developmental milestones, or brain MRI findings such as lissencephaly or subcortical band heterotopia. A referral for genetic counseling is recommended before and after testing.

Limitations

  • NGS may not detect large genomic rearrangements, repeat expansion disorders, or mutations deep in non-coding regions unless specifically analyzed
  • Variants of uncertain significance (VUS) may be reported and require further investigation
  • This test only analyses the DCX gene; other genes associated with lissencephaly are not covered by this specific panel

Risks & Considerations

  • Minor pain or bruising at the venipuncture site
  • Very low risk of infection at the puncture site
  • No significant long-term health risks from having a blood draw

Interfering Factors

  • Presence of maternal DNA contamination (if fetal sample used)
  • Low DNA quality or quantity
  • Mosaic mutations may be under-detected
  • Incorrect sample labeling or documentation

Compare With Similar Tests

TestDCX Gene Lissencephaly/Subcortical laminal heteropia, X-linked NGS Genetic TestTargeted DCX Mutation AnalysisLissencephaly Comprehensive PanelChromosomal Microarray (CMA)
ComparisonDCX Gene Lissencephaly/Subcortical laminal heteropia, X-linked NGS Genetic Test

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the DCX gene and why is it important?
The DCX gene encodes doublecortin, a protein essential for neuronal migration during brain development. Mutations impair brain folding, leading to lissencephaly or subcortical band heterotopia.
Who should consider taking this DCX gene NGS test?
Individuals with clinical or MRI features of lissencephaly or subcortical band heterotopia, individuals with a family history of DCX-related disorders, and at-risk female carriers.
How is the test performed?
A small blood sample or DNA extract is collected. NGS technology sequences the DCX gene to identify disease-causing mutations.
What does a positive result mean?
A pathogenic mutation in the DCX gene confirms the diagnosis in symptomatic individuals and identifies carriers in at-risk relatives.
What does a negative result mean?
No mutation was detected in the DCX gene. This does not exclude the condition definitively, as variants in other genes or non-coding regions may be causative.
Is fasting required before the test?
No, fasting is not required for this genetic test.
How long will it take to receive my reports?
Reports are typically ready in 3 to 4 weeks from sample receipt.
Can females undergo this test?
Yes, females with symptoms such as subcortical band heterotopia or those with a family history of X-linked lissencephaly can be tested.
Will my insurance cover the cost?
Coverage varies by insurance plan. It is recommended to check with your provider. This test is not typically covered under standard plans.
What is the price of the test?
The test is available for INR 20,000, with free home sample collection offered by DNA Labs India.
Can this test be used for prenatal diagnosis?
Yes, if a familial DCX mutation is known, prenatal testing can be performed on fetal DNA (e.g., from CVS or amniocentesis) after appropriate genetic counseling.
What are the limitations of NGS analysis?
NGS may not detect all types of mutations, such as large deletions, duplications, or mutations in non-coding regulatory regions. Further testing may be required.
Worried about the process? Our certified phlebotomists collect thousands of samples every month across India. The process takes under 5 minutes and is virtually painless. Questions? Message us on WhatsApp — we're here 7 days a week.

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