Familial Chylomicronemia Panel
7-gene genetic test at no cost for individuals with suspected FCS and severe hypertriglyceridemia, helping confirm diagnosis and guide care.
Accessed through the Familial Chylomicronemia Syndrome (FCS) Sponsored Testing Program•Sponsored by Ionis Pharmaceuticals•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
Familial chylomicronemia syndrome, or FCS, is a rare genetic condition that causes extremely high triglyceride levels that don't respond well to standard treatments. If you've been dealing with triglycerides that stay stubbornly elevated despite your best efforts, a genetic test can help you and your doctor understand whether an inherited cause is behind it. The Familial Chylomicronemia Syndrome Testing Program, sponsored by Ionis Pharmaceuticals, covers the full cost of a 7-gene panel so there is no charge to you. The program also includes free genetic counseling before and after testing through Genome Medical, so you'll have expert support to help you understand what your results mean.
Who this may help
Could this be right for you or your family?
- To qualify, all of the following must be met:
- At least two fasting triglyceride (blood-fat) levels in a row, each at or above 880 mg/dL, with no other cause or condition that could explain the high triglycerides
What to expect
How the process works
- 1
Check Eligibility & Learn About Testing
Your provider will confirm you meet the program’s eligibility criteria and discuss the test. Optional pre-test genetic counseling is available through Genome Medical.
- 2
Your Provider Orders the Test
Your provider will order the test using the U.S. or Canadian requisition form.
- 3
Provide a Sample
You’ll provide a blood, saliva, or buccal sample. All samples must be labeled with two identifiers. Your provider will handle shipping and kit instructions.
- 4
Receive Results & Counseling
Results are sent to your provider in about 18 days. Your provider will review them with you, and optional post-test genetic counseling is available through Genome Medical.
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 Familial Chylomicronemia Syndrome genetic testing program?
The FCS Testing Program is a sponsored genetic testing program that checks for inherited causes of severely high triglyceride levels. It looks at 7 genes associated with familial chylomicronemia syndrome and related conditions. The test is performed by Prevention Genetics and is designed to help you and your doctor get a clearer picture of why your triglycerides remain extremely elevated.
Is the genetic test for Familial Chylomicronemia Syndrome really free?
Yes, the FCS genetic testing program is completely free to you. Ionis Pharmaceuticals sponsors the program and covers the entire cost of testing, so there is no charge, no copay, and no deductible. The program also includes free pre-test and post-test genetic counseling through Genome Medical.
What kind of sample is needed for the FCS genetic test?
The Familial Chylomicronemia Syndrome panel can be done using a blood draw, a saliva sample, or a buccal swab, which is a simple cheek swab. Your doctor will order a sample collection kit, and the kit will be sent to you or your doctor's office. No complicated procedures are needed.
How long does it take to get results from the FCS genetic test?
Results from the Familial Chylomicronemia Syndrome panel typically come back in about 2 to 3 weeks after your sample reaches the lab. Once results are ready, you can schedule a free post-test genetic counseling session through Genome Medical to review what the findings mean for you and your care.
Is genetic counseling included with the Familial Chylomicronemia Syndrome testing program?
Yes, the FCS Testing Program includes both pre-test and post-test genetic counseling at no cost to you. These sessions are provided through Genome Medical and connect you with a trained genetic counselor. They can help you understand the testing process before you begin and explain your results after they come back.
Why would my doctor recommend genetic testing for Familial Chylomicronemia Syndrome?
Your doctor may recommend FCS genetic testing if your fasting triglyceride levels have been extremely high on multiple occasions and haven't responded well to typical treatments. A genetic test can reveal whether an inherited condition like familial chylomicronemia syndrome is the underlying cause. Having a clear genetic diagnosis can help guide treatment decisions and give you and your doctor better direction for managing your health.
Who qualifies for Familial Chylomicronemia Syndrome (FCS) Familial Chylomicronemia Syndrome genetic testing?
Patients may qualify for Familial Chylomicronemia Syndrome (FCS) if they meet the program's eligibility criteria:
- You must live in the United States or Canada.
- You may qualify if you have two or more fasting triglyceride results above 880 mg/dL (10 mmol/L).
- Your high triglycerides must not be caused by another medical condition or secondary factor.
- You must be able to provide informed consent to participate.
Questions to ask your doctor about Familial Chylomicronemia 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?