Invitae Congenital Myasthenic Syndrome Panel
No-charge genetic testing for Congenital Myasthenic Syndromes (CMS), sponsored by argenx and performed by Labcorp Genetics, with free genetic counseling.
Accessed through the Congenital Myasthenic Syndromes (CMS) Sponsored Testing Program•Sponsored by argenx•Performed by Invitae | Labcorp
Designed to help patients understand the purpose of testing and what to expect.
For patients
What this test and program do
If you or your child has unexplained muscle weakness that gets worse with activity, a genetic test may help find the reason. The argenx Congenital Myasthenic Syndromes (CMS) Sponsored Testing Program offers a 21-gene panel at absolutely no cost to you, because argenx covers the full cost of testing. Getting a genetic answer can be an important step toward the right diagnosis and more personalized care, especially since CMS is very rare and can look different from person to person. The program also includes access to genetic counseling so you have expert support in understanding your results.
Who this may help
Could this be right for you or your family?
- You live in the United States
- Your doctor suspects you may have a congenital myasthenic syndrome (CMS) based on their medical assessment
What to expect
How the process works
- 1
Talk with your doctor
Discuss your symptoms, personal history, and family history with a cardiologist or genetic specialist.
- 2
Complete the blood draw
If appropriate, your doctor orders the ARVC panel and a simple blood sample is collected and sent to the lab.
- 3
Review your results
Results are returned to your doctor, who will explain what they mean and discuss next steps for care.
- 4
Discuss ongoing follow-up
Work with your doctor to plan ongoing monitoring, follow-up visits, and any recommended testing for family members.
Cost & coverage
Understanding potential costs
If you qualify for this program, the sponsor works with the laboratory to help make testing more affordable. Many patients pay little or no out-of-pocket cost. Your exact cost will depend on your insurance coverage and the specific criteria of the program, and the lab can explain what to expect before your sample is processed.
Quality & privacy
How your sample and information are handled
Testing is performed by Invitae | Labcorp, a CLIA-certified laboratory (CLIA 05D2040778). Your sample is processed using validated methods and quality controls to support reliable genetic results.
Your health information is handled under privacy and security practices that are intended to align with applicable regulations. For program- and lab-specific details, review the privacy information provided by the laboratory and sponsor.
FAQ
Common questions about this program
What is the sponsored genetic testing program for congenital myasthenic syndromes?
The argenx Congenital Myasthenic Syndromes (CMS) Sponsored Testing Program provides a comprehensive 21-gene panel designed to look for genetic changes that cause CMS. CMS is a group of very rare conditions that affect the connection between nerves and muscles, often causing muscle weakness and fatigue that may be present from birth or early childhood. Because CMS can vary widely in how it shows up, genetic testing can be a key step toward getting a clear diagnosis and a more tailored treatment plan. The test is performed by Invitae at Labcorp and is available to individuals in the United States.
Is the congenital myasthenic syndromes genetic test really free, and who pays for it?
Yes, the CMS genetic test through this program is completely free to you. argenx, the company sponsoring the program, covers the entire cost of the genetic testing. You will not receive a bill, and there is no copay or deductible. The program also includes genetic counseling at no charge.
What kind of sample is needed for the congenital myasthenic syndromes genetic test?
The preferred sample for the CMS genetic test is a small blood draw, specifically about 3 mL of whole blood collected in a purple-top tube. If a blood draw is not possible or practical, a saliva sample or a buccal swab (a gentle cheek swab) can also be used. Your healthcare provider will help collect the right sample and send it to the lab.
How long does it take to get results from the CMS genetic test?
Results from the Invitae Congenital Myasthenic Syndrome Panel typically come back in about 14 days on average, though the full range is 10 to 21 calendar days. Your ordering healthcare provider will receive the results and go over them with you. If you have questions about what the results mean, genetic counseling is included with the program at no additional cost.
Is genetic counseling included with the congenital myasthenic syndromes testing program?
Yes, genetic counseling is included as part of the argenx CMS Sponsored Testing Program at no cost to you. A genetic counselor can help you understand what the test is looking for, what your results mean, and what the next steps might be. This support can be especially valuable because CMS is rare and the symptoms can vary a great deal depending on the specific genetic cause.
Who qualifies for Congenital Myasthenic Syndromes (CMS) Congenital Myasthenic Syndromes genetic testing?
Patients may qualify for Congenital Myasthenic Syndromes (CMS) if they meet the program's eligibility criteria:
- You live in the United States
- Your doctor suspects you may have a congenital myasthenic syndrome (CMS) based on their medical assessment
Questions to ask your doctor about Invitae Congenital Myasthenic Syndrome Panel
- Do you think this test is appropriate for me based on my symptoms and history?
- How could the results of this test change my diagnosis or treatment plan?
- What are the potential limitations of this test that I should understand?
- Should any of my family members also be tested based on my results?
- How will we follow up after the results are available?
Notes
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