What's this test for?

This test is ideal if you or your care team are investigating a liver mass or lesion found on imaging and need help figuring out what type of tissue it is. It's a specialized tissue stain used to help tell apart liver cancer (hepatocellular carcinoma) from other tumors that started elsewhere in the body but spread to the liver. It's also used to help distinguish a benign (non-cancerous) liver growth from a malignant (cancerous) one.

What's included in this test?

This is a single, highly specialized immunohistochemistry (IHC) stain rather than a panel of many biomarkers. It targets arginase, a protein found in normal liver cells and in most liver cancer cells, which makes it useful for confirming whether a tumor is truly of liver origin. Pathologists use this stain alongside other markers and imaging to build a full picture of a suspicious liver lesion.

What happens after I get my results?

Your results will appear in your account along with an explanation of what the findings mean for the tissue sample tested. Because this is a specialized pathology stain rather than a simple in-range or out-of-range number, the report describes whether the tissue stained positive or negative for the marker and what that pattern typically indicates. A downloadable copy of the standard lab report is available in your account at any time, and you can revisit it later if you need to compare it with future testing. If the findings raise concerns about a liver mass, prompt follow-up imaging or additional tissue evaluation is a reasonable next step.

How can I naturally support liver health?

While this test itself doesn't treat any condition, everyday habits can support overall liver health while you await or process results. Cutting back on alcohol, limiting processed and fried foods, and staying at a healthy weight all reduce strain on the liver. Regular movement, staying hydrated, and avoiding unnecessary medications or supplements that stress the liver (check labels for acetaminophen overuse, for example) can also help. These habits support general liver wellness but are not a substitute for follow-up on any suspicious findings.

When will I get my results?

Results for this specialized tissue stain are typically ready within about 7 days of the lab receiving your sample. Because this test involves detailed microscopic tissue analysis rather than a quick blood draw, it takes a bit longer than routine bloodwork. You'll get a notification as soon as your results are posted to your account.

Who should consider this test?

This test is typically considered when imaging has already identified a liver mass or lesion and more information is needed about its origin. It's most relevant for people with a known or suspected liver tumor, a history of cancer elsewhere in the body with new liver lesions, or an unclear diagnosis after initial liver imaging. It is not a general screening test for people without an existing liver finding.

What symptoms might lead someone to need this test?

People are usually referred for this type of tissue testing after imaging shows an unexplained liver mass, not because of specific symptoms alone. That said, symptoms like unexplained abdominal pain, unintended weight loss, yellowing of the skin or eyes (jaundice), or a feeling of fullness in the upper right abdomen sometimes prompt the imaging that leads here. If you're experiencing any of these symptoms, especially jaundice or severe abdominal pain, seeking prompt medical evaluation is important.

What does a positive arginase result mean?

A positive (high) arginase stain means the tumor cells took up the stain in a pattern typical of liver tissue, which supports a diagnosis of hepatocellular carcinoma or confirms the tumor originated in the liver rather than spreading from elsewhere. This result is one piece of the puzzle and is usually interpreted together with other stains and imaging findings. It does not by itself tell you the stage or severity of the condition.

What does a negative arginase result mean?

A negative (low) result means the tumor cells did not take up the stain the way typical liver tissue does, which points away from hepatocellular carcinoma and suggests the tumor may have originated somewhere else in the body or represents a different tissue type. This helps narrow down what further testing or imaging might be needed. As with a positive result, this finding is meant to be considered alongside other pathology markers.

What should I do if my results are unclear or concerning?

If your report shows findings that suggest a cancerous process or the results are inconclusive, timely follow-up is important — this may mean additional imaging, a repeat biopsy, or further specialized stains. Keep a copy of your downloadable report handy since it will be useful for any follow-up evaluation. Don't delay if you're also experiencing symptoms like jaundice, severe pain, or rapid weight loss — those warrant prompt medical attention.

Getting your blood test with us is easy, private & backed by the power of science.Long story short: In the test options, use the filters or search box to narrow your choices and find the test you want. If you need a hand navigating through options, text our super friendly support team at 754-799-7833, and we'll provide tailored suggestions to help you find the ideal test. Once your order is placed, we’ll create your doctor’s lab order remotely, without any need for you to make a trip to a doctor in person or to talk to the doctor. Expect to receive your doctor’s lab order right in your inbox. It will also be in your patient portal if you need to find it later. We’ll also include instructions regarding fasting and other requirements for your test. Your patient portal will be auto-created hassle-free during checkout. If this is your first time ordering, you'll be prompted to create a password for instant login access to your patient portal. It's a quick way to conveniently access your orders and results whenever you want. When you’re ready, visit one of our 4,000 locations. Just bring your ID – no printing or faxing of your lab order is needed, as your order and details will already be in the lab system. Note that most lab locations don’t accept walk-ins, so it’s best to book an appointment in advance. Don’t worry – we’ll provide detailed instructions along the way. You’ll get your results via email & SMS and dive into understanding your body better. Yup, that easy! If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com and we'll gladly help you.

How do I know which test to get?

In the test options, find the test you want. If you’re not sure which test to get, we can lend a hand in finding the right option. Just text or call us at 754-799-7833, email us at support@privatemdlabs.com, and we'll gladly help you. We've got your back and reply quickly.

When will my lab results be available?

Most test results will be available within 1–3 business days. Once they're ready, we'll send an email and text message to let you know. After your blood draw, just hang tight and don't worry – we'll keep you updated and in the loop! If you have any further questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com, and we'll gladly help you.

Is it possible to make changes to my lab order if I made a mistake with the name, date of birth, or any other details?

Absolutely! We totally understand that errors can happen. No worries, we're here to help you. Just reach out to us via text at 754-799-7833 or shoot us an email at support@privatemdlabs.com. Remember to include your order number and let us know the correct information you’d like to update. Our awesome team will jump right in and make sure everything is sorted out and accurate for you. There are no changes necessary if your address is wrong on the requisition though. We don’t mail anything out. Our lab requires an address to be listed to generate an order.

Do you accept health insurance?

Only HSA & FSA is accepted. Our services are strictly self-pay and cannot be submitted to your health insurance provider except for Health Savings Accounts or Flexible Savings Accounts. This policy applies to all insurance companies, including federal health insurance programs like Medicare. If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com.

Can I cancel my order?

Yes. We get it – sometimes your needs change. As long as your samples haven’t been collected yet, we’re happy to help you cancel your order. If you have any further questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com. You can read more about our cancellation policy here.

How can I find a lab location near me?

During the ordering process, you’ll be able to select a specific lab near you, with no strings attached! You can switch it up later easily and visit any of our authorized locations as long as it’s the same lab company you selected your test for (Quest Diagnostics or Labcorp). Before you proceed with your order, feel free to browse through all our lab locations here. This will give you the peace of mind of knowing that there's a lab nearby your home, office or your favorite gym. If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com and we'll gladly help you.

Arginase IHC Test - Liver Tumor & Cancer Marker

Getting your blood test with us is easy, private & backed by the power of science.

Long story short:

In the test options, use the filters or search box to narrow your choices and find the test you want.
If you need a hand navigating through options, text our super friendly support team at 754-799-7833, and we'll provide tailored suggestions to help you find the ideal test.
Once your order is placed, we’ll create your doctor’s lab order remotely, without any need for you to make a trip to a doctor in person or to talk to the doctor. Expect to receive your doctor’s lab order right in your inbox. It will also be in your patient portal if you need to find it later. We’ll also include instructions regarding fasting and other requirements for your test. Your patient portal will be auto-created hassle-free during checkout.
If this is your first time ordering, you'll be prompted to create a password for instant login access to your patient portal. It's a quick way to conveniently access your orders and results whenever you want.
When you’re ready, visit one of our 4,000 locations. Just bring your ID – no printing or faxing of your lab order is needed, as your order and details will already be in the lab system.
Note that most lab locations don’t accept walk-ins, so it’s best to book an appointment in advance. Don’t worry – we’ll provide detailed instructions along the way.
You’ll get your results via email & SMS and dive into understanding your body better. Yup, that easy!

754-799-7833

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