DNA Narcolepsy Risk Test

Do you suspect your involuntary daytime naps may be due to narcolepsy? Uncover your risk of narcolepsy with this DNA test.

Detects the HLA-DQB1*06:02 variant
Individuals who inherit two copies of HLA-DQB1*06:02 are at 7X to 25X increased risk

$195.00

What is narcolepsy?

Narcolepsy is a chronic sleep disorder characterized by excessive daytime sleepiness and sudden, uncontrollable episodes of sleep. These episodes can occur at any time and can be triggered by relaxing or sedentary activities such as reading, watching television, or even driving. Individuals with narcolepsy may also experience other symptoms such as insomnia, vivid hallucinations, and sleep-related paralysis.

Narcolepsy cases are sporadic but there is a genetic basis for narcolepsy. Family members of people with narcolepsy have a 20%-40% increased risk of narcolepsy. There is a strong link between a genetic variant of the HLA-DQB gene and narcolepsy since 98% of people affected with narcolepsy and cataplexy (sudden loss of muscle tone triggered by strong emotions) carry this change.

This DNA test detects the HLA-DQB variant associated with an increased risk of narcolepsy.

Symptoms of Narcolepsy

Narcolepsy is often incorrectly diagnosed because it involves a wide variety of neurological symptoms.

Main symptoms of Narcolepsy:

Excessive daytime sleepiness (EDS)
Cataplexy, or sudden muscle weakness with full conscious awareness
Sleep paralysis
Hypnagogic or vivid hallucinations
Other symptoms
Microsleep – temporary episodes of sleep that lasts only a few seconds
Night-time wakefulness
Atonia or loss of muscle strength
Periodic limb movement disorder
Rapid entry into REM sleep

The genetics behind this test

A genetic variant in the HLA-DQB gene, HLA-DQB1*06:02, is strongly associated with the risk of narcolepsy.

Individuals who inherit two copies of HLA-DQB1*06:02 are at 7 to 25-times higher risk of developing narcolepsy.

Inheriting one copy of HLA-DQB1*06:02 and any other variants of HLA-DQB1 increases the risk by 3X.

About 15%-20% of people who do not have narcolepsy also have the HLA-DQB1*06:02 variant, suggesting genetics is not the only factor associated with narcolepsy.

It should also be noted that multiple other variants exist for the HLA-DQB1 gene.

Treatment options for narcolepsy

Narcolepsy is a chronic disorder with no cure. However, it can be managed with medication, lifestyle changes and behavioral therapy. Following is a short list of potential modifications that can tried:

Regular sleep schedule, sticking to a consistent sleep schedule and avoiding sudden changes in sleep schedule
Engaging in regular physical activity, but avoiding vigorous exercise close to bedtime
Avoiding alcohol
Refraining from smoking
Medications such as stimulants and antidepressions can be obtained from a healthcare provider to help with excessive sleepiness