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GAA Gene Glycogen storage disease type 2 NGS Genetic Test

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GAA Gene Glycogen storage disease type 2 NGS Genetic Test

Short Name: GAA Gene Pompe Disease NGS Test

Also known as: Pompe Disease Genetic Test, GAA Gene Sequencing Test, Acid Maltase Deficiency Genetic Test, GSD Type II NGS Test, GAA Mutation Analysis Test

GAA Gene Glycogen storage disease type 2 NGS Genetic Test test available at DNA Labs India for ₹20,000. Uses Next Generation Sequencing (NGS), Targeted Gene Panel Sequencing, Sanger Confirmation of Variants, Bioinformatics Pipeline Analysis on Blood or Extracted DNA or One drop Blood on FTA Card samples. Results in Results are typically available within 3 to 4 weeks from the date of sample receipt at the laboratory. Rush processing may be available upon request for clinically urgent cases. Digital reports are delivered via the DNA Labs India online portal, email, and WhatsApp.. Free home collection in 300+ cities across India.

Next Generation Sequencing (NGS)UnisexAll Ages🏠 Home Collection

🩺 Medically Reviewed By

Overview

The purpose of the GAA Gene NGS Genetic Test is to provide a definitive molecular diagnosis of Glycogen Storage Disease Type 2 (Pompe Disease) by identifying pathogenic or likely pathogenic mutations in the GAA gene. This test enables confirmation of clinical diagnosis, facilitates genetic counselling for affected families, guides treatment decisions including eligibility for enzyme replacement therapy (ERT) with alglucosidase alfa, allows carrier testing for family members, supports prenatal and preimplantation genetic diagnosis in at-risk families, and aids in genotype-phenotype correlation for prognostic assessment.

Test Code
2031
CPT Code
81405
ICD Code
E74.0
Price
₹20,000
Sample Type
Blood or Extracted DNA or One drop Blood on FTA Card
Result Time
Results are typically available within 3 to 4 weeks from the date of sample receipt at the laboratory. Rush processing may be available upon request for clinically urgent cases. Digital reports are delivered via the DNA Labs India online portal, email, and WhatsApp.
Fasting Required
No
Method
Next Generation Sequencing (NGS), Targeted Gene Panel Sequencing, Sanger Confirmation of Variants, Bioinformatics Pipeline Analysis
Step 1

Sample Collection

A Genetic Counselling session is recommended before sample collection to draw a complete pedigree chart of family members affected with Glycogen Storage Disease Type 2. Clinical history of the patient including prior diagnostic test results, family history, and current symptoms should be documented. No fasting is required for this test.

Method: Venipuncture / FTA Card blood spot

Step 2

Laboratory Analysis

A peripheral blood sample of 3-5 mL is collected by venipuncture into an EDTA (Lavender Top) vacutainer. Alternatively, a single drop of blood can be spotted and dried on an FTA card. The sample is labeled with patient identifiers and transported under appropriate conditions to the laboratory.

Step 3

Report Delivery

The blood sample is processed to extract genomic DNA. The extracted DNA undergoes quality assessment before library preparation for NGS. The patient may resume normal activities immediately after blood collection. Report delivery is expected within 3 to 4 weeks through online portal, email, or WhatsApp.

Timeline: Results are typically available within 3 to 4 weeks from the date of sample receipt at the laboratory. Rush processing may be available upon request for clinically urgent cases. Digital reports are delivered via the DNA Labs India online portal, email, and WhatsApp.

Patient Instructions

1
Before the Test:Prior to the test, a genetic counselling session should be conducted to document the patient's clinical history, symptoms, and a detailed family pedigree chart. Patients should provide information about any previously diagnosed family members with Glycogen Storage Disease Type 2 or related metabolic disorders. Bring any prior diagnostic reports including enzyme activity assay results, muscle biopsy reports, or imaging studies. No fasting is required before blood sample collection. Informed consent for genetic testing must be obtained.
2
During the Test:A peripheral blood sample of 3-5 mL is collected via venipuncture into an EDTA vacutainer tube, or a single blood drop is applied to an FTA card. The collection procedure is quick, minimally invasive, and similar to a routine blood draw. There is no special preparation or sedation required. The sample is processed for DNA extraction, library preparation, and sequencing on an NGS platform in the laboratory.
3
After the Test:After blood collection, patients can resume normal activities immediately. No specific post-collection care is required. The laboratory processes the sample through DNA extraction, NGS library preparation, sequencing, and bioinformatics analysis. Results are typically available within 3 to 4 weeks and are delivered via online portal, email, or WhatsApp. A follow-up genetic counselling session is strongly recommended to discuss results and any necessary management steps.

About This Test

Who Should Get This Test

The purpose of the GAA Gene NGS Genetic Test is to provide a definitive molecular diagnosis of Glycogen Storage Disease Type 2 (Pompe Disease) by identifying pathogenic or likely pathogenic mutations in the GAA gene. This test enables confirmation of clinical diagnosis, facilitates genetic counselling for affected families, guides treatment decisions including eligibility for enzyme replacement therapy (ERT) with alglucosidase alfa, allows carrier testing for family members, supports prenatal and preimplantation genetic diagnosis in at-risk families, and aids in genotype-phenotype correlation for prognostic assessment.

How to Prepare

  • Ensure the patient has signed informed consent for genetic testing
  • Complete the genetic counselling session and document family pedigree before sample collection
  • Collect 3-5 mL peripheral blood in EDTA (Lavender Top) vacutainer under aseptic conditions
  • Alternatively, collect one drop of blood on an FTA card and allow to dry completely
  • Label the sample accurately with patient name, date of birth, sample ID, and date of collection
  • Store the EDTA blood sample at 2-8 degrees Celsius until dispatch
  • Ship the sample to the laboratory at ambient room temperature within 48 hours of collection
  • Include completed test requisition form with clinical history and family details

Doctor's Notes

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

"Pompe Disease is a progressive lysosomal storage disorder that can present from infancy to adulthood. Early genetic diagnosis through NGS-based testing of the GAA gene allows for timely initiation of enzyme replacement therapy (ERT), which can significantly improve patient outcomes. I recommend this test for any individual presenting with unexplained proximal muscle weakness, hypertrophic cardiomyopathy in infants, or elevated creatine kinase levels, particularly when there is a family history suggestive of autosomal recessive inheritance. Genetic counselling should accompany testing to help families understand inheritance patterns and recurrence risks."

Last medically reviewed: September 7, 2026

Test Parameters & Specifications

Sample TypeBlood or Extracted DNA or One drop Blood on FTA Card
Sample Volume3-5 mL peripheral blood
ContainerEDTA (Lavender Top) Vacutainer or FTA Card
Collection MethodVenipuncture / FTA Card blood spot

Sample Stability

EDTA blood: Stable for 7 days at 2-8 degrees Celsius
Extracted DNA: Stable for up to 6 months at -20 degrees Celsius
FTA Card blood spot: Stable for several years at room temperature when stored in a sealed bag with desiccant
Sample Rejection Criteria:
  • Sample received without proper patient identification or labeling
  • Clotted or hemolyzed blood sample in EDTA tube
  • Sample collected more than 7 days prior to receipt without proper refrigeration
  • Insufficient sample volume for DNA extraction
  • Missing or incomplete test requisition form
  • FTA card with visible mold contamination or moisture damage

Understanding Your Results

The results of the GAA Gene NGS Genetic Test provide molecular confirmation of Glycogen Storage Disease Type 2 (Pompe Disease). Variants identified are classified according to ACMG/AMP 2015 guidelines into five categories. Results should always be interpreted in conjunction with clinical findings, family history, enzyme activity assay results (when available), and imaging studies. Genetic counselling is strongly recommended both before and after testing to help patients and families understand the implications of results.
📊

Confirms molecular diagnosis of Glycogen Storage Disease Type 2 (Pompe Disease). Correlate with clinical phenotype and enzyme activity. Initiate appropriate management including ERT evaluation.

Pathogenic / Diagnostic

📊

Probable diagnosis of Pompe Disease. Further functional studies, enzyme activity assay, or family segregation analysis recommended to classify the VUS.

Likely Pathogenic / Requires further evaluation

📊

Individual is a carrier of Pompe Disease. Typically not affected but may have reduced enzyme levels. Genetic counselling recommended for family planning.

Carrier status

📊

Results are inconclusive for Pompe Disease. Clinical correlation, enzyme activity testing, and family studies are recommended. Re-analysis may be warranted as new data becomes available.

Uncertain / Requires follow-up

📊

Pompe Disease due to GAA gene mutations is unlikely based on the regions tested. If clinical suspicion remains high, consider enzyme activity assay, alternative genetic etiologies, or repeat testing with expanded panel.

Negative / Does not fully exclude disease

⚠️ When to Consult a Doctor:

Consult a medical geneticist or metabolic disease specialist if the test identifies any pathogenic variant, likely pathogenic variant, or variant of uncertain significance in the GAA gene. Immediate medical consultation is advised for infants with suspected infantile-onset Pompe Disease presenting with cardiomyopathy, hypotonia, or respiratory distress. For late-onset symptoms such as progressive muscle weakness or respiratory insufficiency, early referral to a specialist experienced in lysosomal storage disorders is recommended to discuss enzyme replacement therapy options and long-term management strategies.

Limitations

  • This test may not detect large genomic rearrangements, deep intronic variants, or variants in regulatory regions outside the targeted sequencing regions
  • Variants of uncertain significance (VUS) may be identified and require clinical correlation and family studies for interpretation
  • Mosaicism at low levels below the detection threshold of NGS may not be identified
  • This test does not replace enzyme activity assay for functional confirmation of diagnosis in equivocal cases
  • Copy number variations (CNVs) detection sensitivity may vary depending on the specific region and coverage depth

Risks & Considerations

  • Minimal risk associated with blood collection, including slight pain or bruising at the venipuncture site
  • Risk of psychological distress upon receiving a positive diagnosis, for which genetic counselling support is provided
  • Potential identification of variants of uncertain significance (VUS) that may cause anxiety without clear clinical guidance
  • Risk of incidental findings related to consanguinity or unexpected family relationships revealed through genetic analysis

Interfering Factors

  • Recent blood transfusion within the past 4 weeks may affect DNA quality and results
  • Degraded or insufficient DNA quality due to improper sample storage or handling
  • Presence of a pseudogene (GAA pseudogene on chromosome 17) may complicate variant calling in certain regions if not adequately addressed by the bioinformatics pipeline
  • Contamination of sample with exogenous DNA may compromise sequencing accuracy

Compare With Similar Tests

TestGAA Gene Glycogen storage disease type 2 NGS Genetic TestGAA Enzyme Activity Assay (Dried Blood Spot)Sanger Sequencing of GAA GeneWhole Exome Sequencing (WES)
ComparisonGAA Gene Glycogen storage disease type 2 NGS Genetic TestMeasures functional GAA enzyme activity directly. Useful as an initial screening tool but may have false positives due to enzyme instability. NGS genetic test provides definitive molecular confirmation and identifies specific mutations for genotype-phenotype correlation.Traditional sequencing method that examines one exon at a time. Lower throughput and higher per-base cost compared to NGS. NGS offers comprehensive parallel sequencing of all exons with higher sensitivity and efficiency.Analyzes all protein-coding genes across the genome. More comprehensive but generates more incidental findings. Targeted GAA gene NGS test is more focused, cost-effective, and specifically designed for Pompe Disease diagnosis.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the GAA Gene Glycogen Storage Disease Type 2 NGS Genetic Test?
This is a next-generation sequencing (NGS) based genetic test that analyzes the GAA gene on chromosome 17 to identify mutations causing Glycogen Storage Disease Type 2, also known as Pompe Disease. The test provides comprehensive sequencing of all exonic regions and splice sites of the GAA gene to detect pathogenic variants responsible for acid alpha-glucosidase enzyme deficiency.
What is Pompe Disease and how does it affect the body?
Pompe Disease is a rare autosomal recessive lysosomal storage disorder caused by deficiency of the enzyme acid alpha-glucosidase (GAA). Without this enzyme, glycogen accumulates in lysosomes, particularly in muscle cells, leading to progressive muscle weakness, respiratory problems, and in severe infantile-onset cases, hypertrophic cardiomyopathy. The disease affects approximately 1 in 40,000 births.
What is the cost of the GAA Gene NGS Genetic Test in India?
The cost of the GAA Gene Glycogen Storage Disease Type 2 NGS Genetic Test at DNA Labs India is Rs 20000.0. This price includes home sample collection, NGS sequencing, bioinformatics analysis, variant interpretation, and digital report delivery. Free home sample collection is available across all major cities in India.
What sample types are accepted for this genetic test?
The test accepts three sample types: peripheral blood collected in an EDTA (Lavender Top) vacutainer (3-5 mL), extracted DNA if previously isolated, or a single drop of blood dried on an FTA card. Blood is the most commonly used sample type and can be collected at home through our free home collection service.
How long does it take to get the results?
Results of the GAA Gene NGS Genetic Test are typically available within 3 to 4 weeks from the date of sample receipt at the laboratory. The turnaround time includes DNA extraction, NGS library preparation, sequencing, bioinformatics analysis, variant classification, and report generation. Reports are delivered via online portal, email, and WhatsApp.
Is the GAA Gene NGS Genetic Test accurate and reliable?
Yes, this test uses next-generation sequencing technology which provides high sensitivity and specificity for detecting single nucleotide variants and small insertions/deletions in the GAA gene. Identified variants are confirmed using Sanger sequencing and classified according to ACMG/AMP 2015 guidelines. DNA Labs India is an NABL accredited and ISO certified laboratory ensuring quality and reliability.
Do I need a doctor's prescription or referral for this test?
While a physician's referral is recommended for proper clinical correlation, DNA Labs India accepts self-referrals for genetic testing. However, we strongly recommend consulting with a geneticist or metabolic disease specialist before and after testing to ensure appropriate clinical context and interpretation of results. A pre-test genetic counselling session is advised.
Is fasting required before giving a blood sample for this test?
No, fasting is not required for the GAA Gene NGS Genetic Test. Since this is a DNA-based genetic test, dietary intake does not affect the quality of genetic material in your blood sample. You can eat and drink normally before the blood collection.
Can this test be used for carrier screening or prenatal diagnosis?
Yes, the GAA Gene NGS Genetic Test can identify carriers of pathogenic variants in the GAA gene, making it useful for carrier screening in families with a known history of Pompe Disease. For prenatal diagnosis, once the familial mutations are identified through this test, targeted prenatal testing or preimplantation genetic diagnosis (PGD) can be arranged for at-risk pregnancies.
What do the results of this test mean?
Results may show two pathogenic variants confirming Pompe Disease, one variant indicating carrier status, variants of uncertain significance (VUS) requiring further evaluation, or no pathogenic variants detected. All results should be interpreted by a qualified healthcare professional in the context of clinical findings. Genetic counselling is strongly recommended before and after receiving results.
Is home sample collection available for this test?
Yes, DNA Labs India offers free home sample collection for the GAA Gene NGS Genetic Test across all major cities in India including Mumbai, Delhi, Bangalore, Hyderabad, Chennai, Kolkata, Pune, Ahmedabad, and many more. You can book online and a trained phlebotomist will visit your home to collect the blood sample at your convenience.
What raw data files will I receive along with the clinical report?
DNA Labs India is committed to transparency and provides Raw Data, FASTQ files, and VCF (Variant Call Format) files along with the conclusive clinical test report. These files allow independent verification and can be shared with your treating physician or genetic counsellor for comprehensive analysis. This level of data transparency is unique to DNA Labs India among diagnostic laboratories in India.
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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