STRC Gene Deafness, autosomal recessive type 16 NGS Genetic Test
Short Name: STRC Gene DFNB16 NGS Test
Also known as: DFNB16 Genetic Test, STRC Gene Mutation Analysis, Autosomal Recessive Deafness 16 NGS Test, STRC Related Hearing Loss Genetic Test, Stereocilin Gene Deafness Test
STRC Gene Deafness, autosomal recessive type 16 NGS Genetic Test test available at DNA Labs India for ₹20,000. Uses Next-Generation Sequencing (NGS), Sanger Confirmation (if required) on Blood or Extracted DNA or One Drop Blood on FTA Card samples. Results in Results are available within 3 to 4 weeks from the date of sample collection. An online update will be sent once the report is ready.. Free home collection in 300+ cities across India.
🩺 Medically Reviewed By
Dr SULOCHANA HEMCHANDRA HOLLA
Consultant Medical Geneticist · Reg: 8532
Last reviewed: September 7, 2026
Overview
This test is performed to identify pathogenic mutations in the STRC gene that cause autosomal recessive non-syndromic sensorineural hearing loss type 16 (DFNB16). The purpose includes confirming a clinical diagnosis of genetic hearing loss, guiding treatment decisions such as hearing aid fitting or cochlear implant candidacy, informing reproductive counselling for families with a history of hereditary deafness, enabling carrier detection in family members, and facilitating early intervention in affected children to support speech and language development.
- Test Code
- 2334
- CPT Code
- 81479
- ICD Code
- H90.3
- Price
- ₹20,000
- Sample Type
- Blood or Extracted DNA or One Drop Blood on FTA Card
- Result Time
- Results are available within 3 to 4 weeks from the date of sample collection. An online update will be sent once the report is ready.
- Fasting Required
- No
- Method
- Next-Generation Sequencing (NGS), Sanger Confirmation (if required)
Sample Collection
No special preparation such as fasting is required. Bring a valid government-issued photo ID and the doctor's referral or prescription. Inform the sample collection team about any recent blood transfusions or bone marrow transplants. A signed informed consent form is mandatory before sample collection.
Method: Venipuncture or Cheek Swab
Laboratory Analysis
A trained phlebotomist will collect 3-5 mL of venous blood using a sterile EDTA (lavender top) vacutainer tube. Alternatively, a buccal (cheek) swab or a single drop of blood on an FTA card may be used. The procedure typically takes less than 5 minutes and involves minimal discomfort.
Report Delivery
The sample is labeled, barcoded, and transported to our NABL-accredited molecular genetics laboratory under temperature-controlled conditions. Results are available within 3 to 4 weeks. Genetic counselling is available post-testing to help interpret results.
Timeline: Results are available within 3 to 4 weeks from the date of sample collection. An online update will be sent once the report is ready.
Patient Instructions
About This Test
Who Should Get This Test
This test is performed to identify pathogenic mutations in the STRC gene that cause autosomal recessive non-syndromic sensorineural hearing loss type 16 (DFNB16). The purpose includes confirming a clinical diagnosis of genetic hearing loss, guiding treatment decisions such as hearing aid fitting or cochlear implant candidacy, informing reproductive counselling for families with a history of hereditary deafness, enabling carrier detection in family members, and facilitating early intervention in affected children to support speech and language development.
How to Prepare
- Ensure the patient has not received a blood transfusion in the past 30 days
- Use a sterile EDTA (lavender top) tube for blood collection
- If using an FTA card, allow the blood spot to air-dry completely before placing in the protective envelope
- Label the sample with the patient's full name, date of birth, and unique booking ID
- Maintain sample at ambient room temperature during transport; avoid extreme heat or freezing
- For buccal swab collection, avoid eating, drinking, or brushing teeth for at least 30 minutes prior
Doctor's Notes
Reviewed by Dr SULOCHANA HEMCHANDRA HOLLA — MBBS, MD (Medical Genetics) · Reg. No. 8532
"Genetic testing for STRC gene mutations is an essential diagnostic step for individuals presenting with bilateral sensorineural hearing loss with no identifiable environmental cause. Identifying DFNB16 through NGS allows for accurate prognosis, informed genetic counselling for families, and early intervention strategies including hearing aids or cochlear implantation where appropriate. I recommend this test for patients with a family history suggestive of autosomal recessive non-syndromic hearing loss."
Last medically reviewed: September 7, 2026
Test Parameters & Specifications
Sample Stability
- Sample received without proper patient identification or labelling
- Clotted or haemolysed EDTA blood sample
- Insufficient sample volume for DNA extraction
- Sample collected after blood transfusion within the past 30 days without disclosure
- Missing or incomplete consent form
- FTA card with visible mould, contamination, or improperly dried blood spot
Understanding Your Results
No clinically significant mutations were identified in the STRC gene. This result does not fully exclude a genetic cause for hearing loss as mutations in other genes may be responsible. Further genetic evaluation or an expanded hearing loss gene panel may be considered.
Two copies of the same pathogenic variant were identified in the STRC gene, consistent with autosomal recessive inheritance. This is diagnostic of DFNB16 and confirms the genetic basis of the patient's hearing loss. Both parents are expected to be carriers.
Two different pathogenic variants were identified on separate alleles of the STRC gene, consistent with a compound heterozygous state and DFNB16 diagnosis. Carrier testing of parents is recommended to confirm segregation.
A single pathogenic variant was detected. The individual is a carrier of DFNB16 and is typically unaffected but has a 50% chance of passing the variant to each offspring. Partner carrier testing is recommended for reproductive planning.
A variant was identified whose clinical significance cannot be definitively determined with current evidence. This result is not diagnostic. Clinical correlation, family segregation studies, and periodic re-evaluation as new data becomes available are recommended.
Consult a clinical geneticist or ENT specialist if the test result is positive for pathogenic or likely pathogenic variants, if a VUS is detected and further evaluation is needed, if hearing loss is progressive and additional intervention may be required, if family members wish to undergo carrier testing, or if the couple is planning a pregnancy and genetic counselling regarding recurrence risk is desired. Additionally, seek consultation if the test result is negative but clinical suspicion of hereditary hearing loss remains strong.
Limitations
- ⚠This test targets the STRC gene only and does not screen the full spectrum of hearing loss genes
- ⚠Deep intronic regulatory region mutations may not be detected by standard NGS exonic sequencing
- ⚠The test may not reliably detect all copy number variations due to STRC pseudogene homology
- ⚠Results should always be interpreted in conjunction with clinical findings, audiological evaluation, and family history
- ⚠A negative result does not completely exclude a genetic basis for hearing loss as other genes may be involved
- ⚠Variant of uncertain significance (VUS) results require periodic reclassification as new data becomes available
Risks & Considerations
- ●Minimal risk associated with blood draw, including minor bruising, soreness, or very rarely, infection at the puncture site
- ●Emotional or psychological impact of receiving genetic test results, particularly if a pathogenic variant or carrier status is identified
- ●Potential for variants of uncertain significance that may cause anxiety without providing definitive answers
- ●Privacy concerns regarding genetic data, which is handled in strict compliance with applicable data protection regulations
Interfering Factors
- ●Degraded or insufficient DNA quality from improperly stored samples
- ●Recent blood transfusion within the past 30 days may affect genomic DNA composition
- ●Contamination of sample during collection or transport
- ●Presence of pseudogene STRCP1 which shares high sequence homology with STRC and may complicate analysis
Compare With Similar Tests
| Test | STRC Gene Deafness, autosomal recessive type 16 NGS Genetic Test | GJB2 Gene Deafness NGS Genetic Test | Comprehensive Hearing Loss Gene Panel | SLC26A4 Gene Deafness NGS Genetic Test |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Comparison | STRC Gene Deafness, autosomal recessive type 16 NGS Genetic Test |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the STRC Gene Deafness, Autosomal Recessive Type 16 NGS Genetic Test?
What is DFNB16 and how does it cause hearing loss?
What are the symptoms of DFNB16?
Who should consider getting this genetic test?
What sample is required for this test and how is it collected?
What is the cost of the STRC Gene Deafness NGS Genetic Test?
How long does it take to receive the test results?
What does a positive (pathogenic) test result mean?
Can DFNB16 hearing loss be treated or managed?
Is this test painful or invasive?
Is home sample collection available for this test?
What is the difference between this test and a comprehensive hearing loss gene panel?
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