Krystal Bio Custom DEB Panel

The Decode DEB program is a sponsored genetic testing program for people in the United States and Puerto Rico who have signs of epidermolysis bullosa, a group of conditions that cause fragile, easily blistering skin. The program uses a 25-gene panel, including the COL7A1 gene linked to dystrophic epidermolysis bullosa, to help identify the genetic cause and confirm the specific EB subtype. Krystal Biotech sponsors the Decode DEB program and covers the full cost of testing.

Yes, the Decode DEB program is completely free to you. Krystal Biotech covers the entire cost of the genetic testing, so there is no charge, no copay, and no bill sent to you or your insurance. The program is designed to remove the financial barrier so that anyone who qualifies can get answers about their condition.

The Decode DEB program accepts a saliva sample, a buccal swab (a gentle swab of the inside of the cheek), or a whole blood draw. Your healthcare provider will help determine which option works best for you or your child. These are simple collection methods, and your provider can request a collection kit if needed.

Yes, asymptomatic family members of someone affected by epidermolysis bullosa may be eligible for testing through the Decode DEB program at no cost. This is called familial testing and can help determine whether relatives carry a variant in a gene like COL7A1. To qualify, the family member should not have had prior clinical genetic testing for EB.

Genetic counseling is available as part of the Decode DEB program for participants in the United States. A genetic counselor can help you understand your test results, what they mean for your health and your family, and what options may be available. This support is included at no cost to you through the program.

The Decode DEB program uses a 25-gene panel analyzed with next-generation sequencing (NGS) to look for changes in genes associated with different types of epidermolysis bullosa, including COL7A1, the primary gene linked to dystrophic EB. By identifying the specific genetic variant, the test can confirm whether someone has dystrophic, junctional, simplex, or another subtype of EB. This information can be important for guiding care and understanding the condition better.

Patients may qualify for Decode DEB if they meet the program's eligibility criteria:

• You must live in the United States or Puerto Rico.
• You may qualify if you have symptoms consistent with epidermolysis bullosa (EB).
• You are not eligible if you’ve already had genetic testing for EB in a clinical lab.
• Family members of an affected individual may qualify even without symptoms.