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DNA Labs India

MAF Gene Cataract, Pulverulent or Cerulean, with or without Microcornea NGS Genetic Test

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MAF Gene Cataract, Pulverulent or Cerulean, with or without Microcornea NGS Genetic Test

Short Name: MAF Gene Cataract NGS

Also known as: MAF-associated cataract, Pulverulent cerulean cataract with microcornea, Congenital cataract with microcornea, MAF-related lens opacity

MAF Gene Cataract, Pulverulent or Cerulean, with or without Microcornea 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 Samples are processed after receipt. Reports are generally available in 3 to 4 weeks. Raw data files and the clinical report are shared together.. Free home collection in 300+ cities across India.

NGS Genetic TestAll Age Groups🏠 Home Collection

🩺 Medically Reviewed By

Overview

The purpose of this test is to identify pathogenic variants in the MAF gene associated with pulverulent or cerulean cataract, with or without microcornea. It supports clinical diagnosis, helps guide surgical planning, and provides information for genetic counselling and family risk assessment.

Test Code
3798
Price
₹20,000
Sample Type
Blood or Extracted DNA or One drop Blood on FTA Card
Result Time
Samples are processed after receipt. Reports are generally available in 3 to 4 weeks. Raw data files and the clinical report are shared together.
Fasting Required
No
Method
Next-Generation Sequencing (NGS)
Step 1

Sample Collection

No fasting is required. Keep the test requisition form and clinical notes ready. Inform the laboratory about any previous genetic testing in the family. A genetic counselling session to draw a pedigree chart may be required before the sample is taken.

Method: Peripheral blood draw or FTA card blood spot

Step 2

Laboratory Analysis

A blood sample is collected from a vein or one drop of blood is placed on an FTA card. The procedure is quick and causes minimal discomfort.

Step 3

Report Delivery

No special precautions are needed after sample collection. The sample will be sent to the laboratory for NGS analysis. The report will be shared using the chosen delivery option, along with raw data files.

Timeline: Samples are processed after receipt. Reports are generally available in 3 to 4 weeks. Raw data files and the clinical report are shared together.

Patient Instructions

1
Before the Test:No fasting is required. Talk to your doctor about the reason for the test and any relevant family history. A consent form and genetic counseling session may be required.
2
During the Test:The sample is collected as a blood sample or FTA card spot. It is then sent to the laboratory for next-generation sequencing of the MAF gene.
3
After the Test:After the sample is collected, you can resume normal activities. The laboratory will process the sample and provide the report within 3 to 4 weeks.

About This Test

Who Should Get This Test

The purpose of this test is to identify pathogenic variants in the MAF gene associated with pulverulent or cerulean cataract, with or without microcornea. It supports clinical diagnosis, helps guide surgical planning, and provides information for genetic counselling and family risk assessment.

How to Prepare

  • Patient identity must be verified before collection.
  • Blood: 2-3 mL in EDTA vacutainer under aseptic conditions.
  • FTA card: One drop of blood applied to the designated circles and air dried.
  • Label the sample with patient name, UID, and collection date/time.

Doctor's Notes

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

"During preconception and antenatal counselling, a history of congenital cataract in the family should prompt evaluation for genetic causes. In couples with a family history of MAF-associated cataract, genetic counselling can clarify recurrence risk and reproductive options."

Last medically reviewed: September 7, 2026

Test Parameters & Specifications

Sample TypeBlood or Extracted DNA or One drop Blood on FTA Card
Sample VolumeAs per collection protocol
ContainerK2EDTA tube / FTA card / DNA vial
Collection MethodPeripheral blood draw or FTA card blood spot

Sample Stability

Whole blood (EDTA): 24-48 hours at room temperature
Extracted DNA: stable for many months at -20°C if properly stored
FTA card: stable at room temperature for extended periods
Sample Rejection Criteria:
  • Clotted, hemolyzed, or severely lipemic blood
  • Insufficient sample volume
  • Mislabeled or unlabeled sample
  • Sample leaked or broken in transit
  • EDTA sample received after 4 days without temperature maintenance

Understanding Your Results

Variant interpretation is based on current clinical evidence and ACMG guidelines. The report should be reviewed by the referring clinician and a clinical geneticist.
📊

Positive

A pathogenic or likely pathogenic MAF variant was found. This supports the diagnosis of MAF gene cataract.

📊

Negative

No clinically significant MAF variant was detected. Other genetic causes of cataract should be considered.

📊

Variant of uncertain significance

A variant was found, but its clinical significance is unclear. Additional family studies may be needed.

⚠️ When to Consult a Doctor:

Consult an ophthalmologist if you notice blurred vision, night vision difficulty, glare, double vision, or a white or grayish pupil in a child. If a genetic cause is suspected, ask for a referral to a clinical geneticist.

Limitations

  • This test evaluates MAF gene sequence variants only and does not assess other cataract-associated genes.
  • Large genomic rearrangements may not be detected by standard NGS.
  • Regulatory or non-coding variants may be missed.
  • A negative result does not exclude a genetic cause in another gene.
  • Interpretation should always be done in the context of clinical findings and family history.

Risks & Considerations

  • Minimal risk of bruising or discomfort at the blood collection site.
  • FTA card blood spot collection has no needle-related risk.
  • No genetic test is entirely perfect; variant interpretation may need follow-up.

Interfering Factors

  • Poor quality or insufficient DNA
  • Sample contamination with maternal blood
  • Incomplete coverage of the MAF gene
  • Large deletions or duplications not reliably detected by standard NGS
  • Variant of uncertain significance requiring family segregation analysis

Frequently Asked Questions

What is MAF Gene Cataract?
MAF Gene Cataract is a rare inherited form of cataract caused by mutations in the MAF gene. It can present as pulverulent or cerulean lens opacity, with or without microcornea.
What symptoms are associated with MAF gene cataract?
Symptoms can include blurred vision, sensitivity to light, night vision difficulty, double vision, and a cloudy appearance of the lens. Some patients may also have microcornea.
How is MAF gene cataract diagnosed?
Diagnosis is made through a detailed eye examination by an ophthalmologist and confirmed by genetic testing. The NGS test detects mutations in the MAF gene.
What is the cost of this NGS genetic test in India?
DNA Labs India offers this MAF Gene Cataract NGS Genetic Test at Rs 20000.0. Online bookings include free home sample collection in eligible cities.
What sample is needed for the test?
The test can be done on blood, extracted DNA, or one drop of blood on an FTA card. No special preparation is needed.
Do I need to fast before the test?
No, fasting is not required for this genetic test. You can take food and medication as usual unless your doctor advises otherwise.
How long does it take to get the report?
Reports are generally available in 3 to 4 weeks. DNA Labs India provides the clinical report along with raw data files like FASTQ and VCF.
What is next-generation sequencing (NGS)?
NGS is a high-throughput DNA sequencing technology used to read multiple regions of the genome. In this test, it is used to sequence the MAF gene to find cataract-causing variants.
Does this test detect microcornea?
The test does not diagnose microcornea directly. Microcornea is identified by clinical eye examination. The test checks for MAF gene mutations that can be associated with microcornea.
Who should take this test?
People with congenital or childhood cataract, pulverulent or cerulean cataract, cataract with microcornea, or a family history of MAF-related cataract should speak with a doctor about this test.
Is home sample collection available?
Yes, DNA Labs India offers free home sample collection for online bookings across many Indian cities, including Mumbai, Delhi, Bangalore, Hyderabad, Kolkata, Chennai, Pune, and more.
What do the test results mean?
A positive result means a pathogenic or likely pathogenic MAF variant is present. A negative result means no such variant was found. Variants of uncertain significance may require further family analysis and genetic counseling.
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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Stored in India: All patient records are stored on servers located in India. No data is transferred outside the country.

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