SCA6 (CACNA1A) Genetic Testing (Repeat Expansion)
Use
Spinocerebellar ataxias (SCAs), and episodic ataxias are the most common types of autosomal dominant cerebellar ataxias (ADCAs). SCAs are numbered based upon their time of identification. SCA3 is the most common type of SCA worldwide, followed by SCA2, SCA1, and SCA6. Some of the complicated forms have not been given a SCA number, like Dentatorubral Pallidoluysian Atrophy (DRPLA). Anticipation can be observed in the autosomal dominant ataxias in which CAG trinucleotide repeats occur. Anticipation results from expansion in the number of CAG repeats with transmission of the gene to subsequent generations. Most ADCAs have an overlap in clinical presentation, which makes it hard to differentiate. The most frequent clinical symptoms in all ADCAs are progressive adult-onset gait ataxia (often with hand dysmetria), and dysarthria associated with cerebellar atrophy. The episodic ataxias are characterized by periods of unsteady gait and often associated with nystagmus or dysarthria. Myokymia, vertigo, or hearing loss may occur in some of the subtypes. Permanent ataxia and even cerebellar atrophy may result late in the disease course.
Special Instructions
It is important to handle samples appropriately. Whole blood specimens should be collected using standard phlebotomy techniques, and oral swabs should follow the kit instructions. Extracted DNA requires coordination with MNG Genetic Services. Samples must be kept at room temperature or refrigerated, and freezing should be avoided.
Limitations
The test may produce false positive or negative results due to factors such as rare genetic variants, allele dropout, blood transfusions, bone marrow transplantation, mosaicism, or mislabeled samples. The test's maximum reportable repeat expansion sizes vary for different genes, with CACNA1A having a maximum of 145 repeats. Repeat sizes exceeding these limits are reported as greater than the largest reportable size, which affects interpretation.
Methodology
PCR-based (Repeat-primed PCR)
Biomarkers
Result Turnaround Time
14-28 days
Related Documents
For more information, please review the documents below
Specimen
Whole Blood
Volume
4 mL
Minimum Volume
2 mL
Container
lavender-top (EDTA) tube
Collection Instructions
standard phlebotomy
Storage Instructions
Maintain specimen at room temperature or refrigerate at 4°C. Do not freeze.
Causes for Rejection
Frozen or hemolyzed specimen; quantity not sufficient for analysis; improper container
Stability Requirements
| Temperature | Period |
|---|---|
| Room Temperature | 14 days |
| Refrigerated | 30 days |
| Frozen | do not freeze |
