Invitae Epilepsy Panel
Analyzes key genes linked to syndromic and nonsyndromic epilepsy to support diagnosis, clarify prognosis, guide care, and inform family counseling.
Accessed through the Behind the Seizure® Sponsored Testing Program•Sponsored by BioMarin•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 your child started having unexplained seizures between the ages of 2 and 5, the Behind the Seizure program may be able to help. Sponsored by BioMarin, this program provides a comprehensive genetic test at absolutely no cost to you or your family. The test, called the Invitae Epilepsy Panel, looks at 302 genes linked to seizure disorders and may help your child's doctor understand what is causing the seizures and plan more personalized treatment.
Who this may help
Could this be right for you or your family?
- To qualify, all of the following must be met:
- Your child had an unprovoked seizure that first happened between 2 and 5 years of age (inclusive)
- Your child is currently under 10 years old
- You live in the United States
What to expect
How the process works
- 1
Get Started
Discuss testing with your provider and provide consent. Your provider will place the order through Invitae’s online portal.
- 2
Provide a Sample
Give a saliva, buccal, or blood sample using the Invitae collection kit. The kit includes a prepaid label for no-charge return shipping within the US.
- 3
View Your Results
Results will be available online. Your provider will review them with you and share resources to help you understand next steps.
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 Behind the Seizure program for childhood epilepsy?
Behind the Seizure is a sponsored genetic testing program that provides no-cost access to the Invitae Epilepsy Panel for eligible children with epilepsy. The program is designed for children under 10 who began having unprovoked seizures between the ages of 2 and 5. It tests 302 genes related to seizure disorders, and the results may help doctors better understand the cause of your child's epilepsy and guide treatment decisions.
Is the Behind the Seizure epilepsy genetic test really free?
Yes, the Behind the Seizure program is completely free for families. BioMarin, the program's sponsor, covers the full cost of the genetic testing. There is no charge, no copay, and no deductible for you. Your family will not receive a bill for the test.
What kind of sample is needed for the Behind the Seizure epilepsy test?
The Behind the Seizure program accepts several sample types, including whole blood, saliva, or a buccal swab (a gentle cheek swab). Your child's doctor will choose the option that works best for your child. Collection is straightforward, and your doctor's office will handle getting the sample to the lab.
How long does it take to get results from the Behind the Seizure epilepsy test?
Results from the Behind the Seizure program are typically available within 10 to 21 days after the lab receives your child's sample. Your child's doctor will receive the results and go over them with you. Having answers in just a few weeks can help the care team move forward with a more informed treatment plan.
How many genes does the Behind the Seizure epilepsy panel test?
The Invitae Epilepsy Panel used in the Behind the Seizure program analyzes 302 genes associated with seizure disorders, including developmental and epileptic encephalopathies. This broad coverage gives doctors a detailed look at the possible genetic causes behind your child's epilepsy, which may lead to more targeted care.
Is genetic counseling available through the Behind the Seizure epilepsy program?
Genetic counseling resources are available through the testing laboratory, Invitae (Labcorp). A genetic counselor can help you and your family understand what the test results mean and what steps might come next. Ask your child's doctor about connecting with a genetic counselor as part of the testing process.
Who qualifies for Behind the Seizure epilepsy genetic testing?
Patients may qualify for Behind the Seizure if they meet the program's eligibility criteria:
- Child resides in the United States
- Under 10 years of age
- First unprovoked seizure occurred between ages 2 and 5 (inclusive)
- Children outside this range may qualify for the Invitae Unlock™ Epilepsy Program
Questions to ask your doctor about Invitae Epilepsy 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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