What's this test for?

This test is ideal if you're already diagnosed with papillary thyroid cancer and need more information about the specific type of tumor you have. It checks for a genetic change called the BRAF V600E mutation, which is found in about 40-50% of papillary thyroid cancers. Knowing whether this mutation is present can help explain how the cancer may behave and what treatment approaches may be considered.

What happens after I get my results?

Your results will appear in your account along with an explanation of what a positive or negative BRAF mutation finding means. Next steps depend on your specific diagnosis and typically involve discussing the finding alongside your other pathology and imaging results as part of your ongoing cancer care. You can download a standard lab report from your account at any time, and if repeat testing is ever needed, you can track results over time using the trends feature.

Who should consider this test?

This test is meant for people who have already been diagnosed with papillary thyroid carcinoma, or in some cases anaplastic or poorly differentiated thyroid carcinoma, and want additional molecular information about their tumor. It's not a general screening test for people without a thyroid cancer diagnosis. It's most useful when paired with existing biopsy or pathology results.

What symptoms indicate I may need this test?

On its own, this test isn't meant to investigate new symptoms like a neck lump, hoarseness, or difficulty swallowing — those should be evaluated with imaging and a biopsy first. This test becomes relevant only after a papillary thyroid carcinoma diagnosis has already been made. If you have a confirmed diagnosis and want more detail on the tumor's genetic profile, this test is appropriate.

When will I get my results?

Results are typically available within about 7 days of your sample being received by the lab. This timeframe reflects the specialized molecular testing needed to detect the BRAF mutation. You'll get a notification as soon as your results are ready to view in your account.

What is the BRAF mutation and why does it matter?

BRAF is a gene that normally helps control cell growth. In some papillary thyroid cancers, a specific change in this gene — called V600E — causes cells to grow in a way that can make the tumor behave differently. Identifying this mutation gives more insight into the tumor's biology, which can be useful information alongside other test results.

What does a positive BRAF result mean?

A positive result means the V600E mutation was found in the tested tissue, which happens in roughly half of papillary thyroid cancers. This finding doesn't change the original cancer diagnosis, but it adds detail about the tumor's genetic makeup. This information is typically considered together with your pathology report and imaging findings.

What does a negative BRAF result mean?

A negative result means this specific mutation wasn't detected in the sample tested. This is common, since roughly half of papillary thyroid cancers do not carry the BRAF V600E mutation. A negative result doesn't rule out cancer or change your existing diagnosis — it simply means this particular genetic marker wasn't present.

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

If your result raises questions, the best next step is to review it alongside your full pathology report and clinical history, since BRAF status is meant to be interpreted together with those findings. Keep a copy of your downloadable lab report for your records. If you experience new or worsening symptoms like a rapidly growing neck lump or difficulty breathing, seek medical care right away.

How often should I retest?

This is typically a one-time test performed on a specific tumor sample rather than something you repeat on a regular schedule. Retesting might be relevant only if a new tumor sample becomes available, such as after a recurrence or a new biopsy. Your trends feature can help keep a record if you do need to compare results over time.

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.

BRAF Mutation Test - Papillary Thyroid Cancer Insight

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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