My Retina Tracker® Panel
A comprehensive 110-gene panel designed to identify pathogenic variants associated with inherited retinal degenerations and related retinal dystrophies.
Accessed through the My Retina Tracker® Sponsored Testing Program•Sponsored by Foundation Fighting Blindness•Performed by Prevention Genetics
Designed to help patients understand the purpose of testing and what to expect.
For patients
What this test and program do
If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with an inherited retinal disease (IRD) such as retinitis pigmentosa, Stargardt disease, Usher syndrome, or another condition affecting the retina, understanding the genetic cause can be a powerful step forward. The My Retina Tracker Program provides a comprehensive genetic test covering 110 genes linked to inherited retinal diseases, and the sponsor covers the full cost of testing so there is no charge to you. Knowing your specific genetic result can help guide your care, connect you with relevant clinical trials, and may help determine whether you qualify for targeted therapies that are becoming available for certain IRDs.
Who this may help
Could this be right for you or your family?
- Must reside in the United States or a U.S. territory.
- Must have a clinically confirmed inherited retinal disease (IRD) included in the program.
- Must not have a first-degree relative previously tested through the Program.
- Must not have had 32+ gene IRD panel testing, whole exome, or whole genome sequencing within the last 5 years.
- Must not have a prior IRD-related molecular diagnosis from any genetic test.
- Must be willing to join the My Retina Tracker Registry and share results with the registry.
- Note: Individuals with a biological relative who received a positive or indeterminate Program result may qualify for familial variant testing at no cost.
What to expect
How the process works
- 1
Review Program Details
Your provider will share information about the Program along with the study flyer and FAQ so you can decide if you want to move forward.
- 2
Complete the Consent Forms
If you choose to participate, use the DocuSign link from the Foundation Fighting Blindness to complete the consent forms and HIPAA release.
- 3
Notify Your Provider
After submitting your electronic forms, your provider will receive a copy of your executed HIPAA release, which is required for ordering your test.
- 4
Provider Submits Test Order
Your provider will complete the Program’s test requisition form, provide your clinical details, and indicate their genetic counseling preference.
- 5
Provide a Sample
Your sample may be collected in clinic or through a kit mailed to your home. All specimen containers must be labeled with at least two identifiers.
- 6
Lab Processes Your Test
PreventionGenetics will process your sample once received. Specimens are accepted Monday–Saturday; holiday schedules are posted in advance.
- 7
Receive Your Results
Results are typically available in about 21 days and will be reviewed with you by your provider or by a genetic counselor at InformedDNA.
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 Prevention Genetics, a CLIA-certified laboratory (CLIA 52D2065132) and College of American Pathologists (CAP) certified laboratory (CAP 7185561). 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 My Retina Tracker Program for inherited retinal disease, and is the genetic testing really free?
The My Retina Tracker Program is a sponsored genetic testing program for people who have a clinically confirmed inherited retinal disease. It uses a 110-gene panel to look for the specific genetic change causing your vision condition. The sponsor covers the entire cost of the test, so there is no charge to you, no copay, and no deductible.
What kind of sample is needed for the My Retina Tracker inherited retinal disease genetic test?
The My Retina Tracker Program can use a whole blood draw, a saliva sample, or a buccal swab (a gentle cheek swab) to run the genetic test. Your healthcare provider will help determine which sample type works best for you. The process is simple and can typically be completed during a routine office visit.
How long does it take to get results from the My Retina Tracker genetic test for inherited retinal diseases?
Results from the My Retina Tracker Program are typically returned within 2 to 3 weeks after your sample reaches the laboratory. Your healthcare provider will review the results with you and explain what the findings mean for your care and any next steps.
Why is genetic testing important if I already have a diagnosis of an inherited retinal disease like retinitis pigmentosa or Stargardt disease?
Even if you already have a clinical diagnosis of an inherited retinal disease, genetic testing through the My Retina Tracker Program can pinpoint the exact gene responsible for your condition. This matters because new gene-targeted therapies and clinical trials are emerging for specific genetic forms of IRDs. Having your genetic result on file means your care team can match you with the right treatment opportunities as they become available.
Is genetic counseling available through the My Retina Tracker Program for inherited retinal disease testing?
Yes, the My Retina Tracker Program includes access to genetic counseling support as part of the no-cost testing program. A genetic counselor can help you understand your results, what they mean for your family, and what options may be available to you going forward.
Who qualifies for My Retina Tracker Inherited Retinal Disease genetic testing?
Patients may qualify for My Retina Tracker if they meet the program's eligibility criteria:
- Must reside in the United States or a U.S. territory.
- Must have a clinically confirmed inherited retinal disease (IRD) included in the program.
- Must not have a first-degree relative previously tested through the Program.
- Must not have had 32+ gene IRD panel testing, whole exome, or whole genome sequencing within the last 5 years.
- Must not have a prior IRD-related molecular diagnosis from any genetic test.
- Must be willing to join the My Retina Tracker Registry and share results with the registry.
- Note: Individuals with a biological relative who received a positive or indeterminate Program result may qualify for familial variant testing at no cost.
Questions to ask your doctor about My Retina Tracker® 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
See an issue with this program?