Uncovering Periodic Paralysis Panel
Genetic testing for 6 genes associated with primary periodic paralysis, including HyperPP, HypoPP, PMC, and ATS, to help clarify the cause of episodic muscle weakness.
Accessed through the Uncovering Periodic Paralysis Sponsored Testing Program•Sponsored by Xeris Pharmaceuticals•Performed by Prevention Genetics
Designed to support clinical decision-making and ordering in your practice.
For healthcare providers
Overview
The Uncovering Periodic Paralysis program provides a no-cost, targeted 6-gene NGS panel for patients presenting with episodic muscle weakness or paralysis consistent with primary hyperkalemic or hypokalemic periodic paralysis. Sponsored by Xeris Pharmaceuticals and performed by Prevention Genetics, the program includes genetic counseling and streamlined kit-based sample collection, removing financial and logistical barriers to a molecular diagnosis for your patients.
When to consider this test
Patient selection
- To qualify, all of the following must be met:
- Patient is in the US
- At least one of the following (more than one occurrence):
- Episodic muscle weakness/paralysis attacks
- Episodic pain after attacks
- Episodes are provoked by at least one of the common triggers for hyperkalemic or hypokalemic primary periodic paralysis
Workflow
How to use this program
- 1
Assess Eligibility
Confirm the patient meets criteria and discuss indications for testing.
- 2
Order the Test
Order via the online portal or paper TRF. Choose whole blood, saliva, or buccal swab based on clinical need.
- 3
Collect and Ship Sample
Collect and label specimens with two identifiers. Ship Monday–Saturday per standard instructions.
- 4
Review Test Results
Results return in ~3 weeks. Discuss findings with the patient and document follow-up as appropriate.
Billing overview
Program billing
For eligible patients, the sponsor has arrangements with the laboratory that may reduce or cover some or all of the patient's out-of-pocket cost. Actual cost and patient responsibility vary by program criteria. Refer to lab or sponsor materials for details.
Quality & privacy
Laboratory quality & data handling
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
Frequently asked questions
Which patients are appropriate for the Uncovering Periodic Paralysis panel?
The Uncovering Periodic Paralysis program is intended for patients with a clinical presentation consistent with periodic paralysis, including recurrent episodes of muscle weakness or paralysis provoked by recognized triggers for hyperkalemic or hypokalemic forms. Patients must meet the program's eligibility criteria to qualify. Ordering the test carries no prescribing or purchase obligation.
What does the Uncovering Periodic Paralysis genetic panel cover?
The Uncovering Periodic Paralysis Panel is a 6-gene NGS panel designed to evaluate genetic variants associated with periodic paralysis, encompassing both hyperkalemic and hypokalemic forms. The panel is performed by Prevention Genetics and is fully sponsored by Xeris Pharmaceuticals, so there is no charge to the patient or ordering provider.
What specimen types are accepted for the Uncovering Periodic Paralysis program?
The Uncovering Periodic Paralysis program accepts whole blood, saliva, or buccal swab (OCD-100) specimens. Collection kits can be ordered directly through Prevention Genetics at no cost. This flexibility in specimen type supports convenient collection across a range of clinical settings.
What is the turnaround time for the Uncovering Periodic Paralysis panel?
The turnaround time for the Uncovering Periodic Paralysis Panel is 2 to 3 weeks from specimen receipt at Prevention Genetics. Results are reported back to the ordering clinician, and the program includes no-cost genetic counseling to support result interpretation and patient communication.
Is genetic counseling included with the Uncovering Periodic Paralysis program?
Yes, the Uncovering Periodic Paralysis program includes genetic counseling at no cost, sponsored by Xeris Pharmaceuticals. This resource is available to support both clinicians and patients in interpreting results and discussing implications for management and family screening.
Is there any cost or obligation when ordering the Uncovering Periodic Paralysis panel?
There is no cost to the patient or ordering clinician for the Uncovering Periodic Paralysis program. Xeris Pharmaceuticals fully sponsors the testing, including the collection kit, genetic analysis, and genetic counseling. Ordering the test does not create any prescribing or purchase obligation.
Which patients are eligible for Uncovering Periodic Paralysis periodic paralysis genetic testing?
Patients may qualify for Uncovering Periodic Paralysis if they meet the program's eligibility criteria:
- Adult U.S.-based patients (≥18 years) with recurrent episodes of muscle weakness/paralysis or post-attack pain
- Clinical history suggesting primary periodic paralysis with attacks triggered by known HyperPP or HypoPP precipitating factors
- Indications consistent with:
- HyperPP: episodic weakness with serum potassium >4.5 mEq/L
- HypoPP: episodic weakness with hypokalemia (<2.5 mEq/L)
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