Invitae Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis with C9orf72 Panel
Panel analyzes genes associated with ALS, including C9orf72 repeat expansion, the most common genetic cause. Broad testing supports diagnosis, prognosis, and counseling.
Accessed through the ALS Identified Sponsored Testing Program•Sponsored by Biogen•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
ALS Identified is a sponsored genetic testing program that helps people living with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, or ALS, and their family members understand whether a genetic cause may be behind the disease. Knowing your genetic makeup can shape your care plan, help your family understand their own risk, and may open the door to clinical trials exploring new treatments. The program is fully covered by its sponsor, Biogen, so there is no cost to you, your doctor, or your insurance.
Who this may help
Could this be right for you or your family?
- To qualify, all of the following must be met:
- You are 18 years of age or older
- You live in the United States or Puerto Rico
- One of these describes you:
- You have been diagnosed with ALS (amyotrophic lateral sclerosis)
- You have no ALS symptoms yourself, but ALS runs in your family
What to expect
How the process works
- 1
Start Test
Discuss testing with your provider and give consent. Your provider will place the order through Invitae’s online portal.
- 2
Provide a Sample
Your provider will collect your specimen using an Invitae kit and return it using the included shipping label at no additional charge.
- 3
Get Your Results
Access your results online. Your provider can review them with you and use Invitae’s resources to support the discussion.
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 ALS Identified genetic testing program?
ALS Identified is a sponsored program that provides a 22-gene panel, called the Invitae Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis with C9orf72 Panel, to people who have been diagnosed with ALS or who have a family history of ALS. The test looks across a broad set of genes linked to ALS to help determine whether a genetic factor is involved. The program is available in the United States and Puerto Rico, and testing is performed by Invitae at Labcorp.
Is the ALS Identified genetic test really free for patients?
Yes, the ALS Identified program is completely free to you. Biogen, the program's sponsor, covers the full cost of testing. You will not receive a bill, and there is no copay, deductible, or hidden charge of any kind.
What kind of sample is needed for the ALS Identified genetic test?
The ALS Identified program accepts several sample types, including a blood draw, a saliva sample, or a buccal swab (a gentle cheek swab). Your doctor's office will help you with whichever option works best for your situation, so the process is straightforward and convenient.
How long does it take to get results from the ALS Identified test?
Results from the ALS Identified program typically come back within 10 to 21 days after the lab receives your sample. Your ordering clinician will share the results with you and can help explain what they mean for your care and your family.
Why should someone with ALS get genetic testing through ALS Identified?
Genetic testing through ALS Identified can reveal whether your ALS has a genetic cause, which may influence your treatment options and help your care team plan ahead. It also gives your family important information about their own risk and can help determine whether you might be eligible for clinical trials studying new therapies for genetic forms of ALS.
Is genetic counseling available through the ALS Identified program?
The ALS Identified program is designed to support not just testing but also family counseling and care planning. Your healthcare provider can discuss your results with you and connect you with genetic counseling resources to help you and your loved ones understand what the findings mean.
Who qualifies for ALS Identified Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis genetic testing?
Patients may qualify for ALS Identified if they meet the program's eligibility criteria:
- Must be 18 years or older.
- Must reside in the United States or Puerto Rico.
- Must have a diagnosis of ALS, or a family history of ALS (including familial ALS or suspected sporadic ALS, since pathogenic variants may occur even without a known family history).
Questions to ask your doctor about Invitae Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis with C9orf72 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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