What's this test for?

This test is ideal if you or a lab have identified a breast tumor sample that needs further analysis to guide treatment decisions. It looks at a paraffin-embedded tissue block from a breast biopsy or surgery to determine whether the tumor cells are sensitive to hormones and whether they overproduce a protein linked to faster tumor growth. This information is a key part of planning the most effective treatment approach after a breast cancer diagnosis.

How should I prepare for this test?

How can I naturally support my recovery and overall health during breast cancer evaluation? While there's no way to naturally change what your tumor tissue shows on this test, you can support your overall well-being during this process by eating a balanced, nutrient-rich diet, staying physically active as tolerated, managing stress through activities like walking or meditation, and getting enough sleep. These habits won't change the test results, but they can help your body handle treatment and recovery better.

What's included in this test?

This test looks at three separate markers on the tumor tissue sample: two hormone receptor markers and one growth-protein marker. The hormone receptor markers matter because they show whether the cancer cells rely on estrogen or progesterone to grow, which affects whether hormone-blocking treatment could help. The growth-protein marker matters because tumors that overproduce it may respond to specific targeted therapies, and if the initial result is borderline, a reflex test automatically checks it more closely using a more precise method.

What happens after I get my results?

Your results will be available in your account, with each marker explained in plain language along with what a positive or negative result generally means. Depending on the findings, next steps may include discussing hormone-based therapy options or targeted treatments with your care team, and this report can serve as a reference point for those conversations. You can download the standard lab report directly from your account at any time. If you have follow-up testing in the future, you'll be able to track results over time using the trends feature.

When will I get my results?

Results for this test are typically available within about 7 days from when the lab receives your tissue sample. This timeline allows for the detailed lab processes involved, including the initial hormone receptor and HER2 testing, plus the additional FISH reflex test if it's needed based on the initial findings. You'll be notified as soon as your results are ready to view in your account.

Who should consider this test?

This test is typically considered for anyone who has been diagnosed with breast cancer and has an existing tissue sample (paraffin block) from a biopsy or surgery. It's especially relevant if treatment planning requires more detailed information about the tumor's hormone sensitivity and growth characteristics. It may also be useful if a prior test result was unclear and needs the more precise reflex testing to confirm the findings.

What does a positive HER2 result mean?

A positive HER2 result means the tumor cells are making extra copies of a protein that can drive faster cell growth, which happens in about 20-25% of breast cancer cases. This finding is actually useful because it opens the door to targeted treatments designed specifically to work against HER2-positive tumors. If your initial test comes back borderline, the reflex FISH test provides a clearer, more definitive answer.

What does a positive hormone receptor result mean?

A positive result for estrogen or progesterone receptors means the tumor cells have receptors that respond to these hormones, which can fuel their growth. This is generally seen as a favorable finding because it means hormone-blocking treatments may be effective at slowing or stopping the cancer's growth. Tumors that are hormone-receptor-positive also tend to have a somewhat better overall outlook compared to receptor-negative tumors.

What causes HER2 overexpression in breast tumors?

HER2 overexpression happens when a tumor's cells have extra copies of the HER2 gene, causing them to produce too much of the HER2 protein on their surface. This is a change that occurs within the tumor's own DNA rather than something caused by lifestyle or outside factors. It's found in roughly one in five breast cancer cases and is identified specifically through lab testing like this one, not through symptoms.

What should I do if my results are abnormal?

If your results show hormone-receptor-positive or HER2-positive findings, these are actionable results that typically guide specific treatment options, so it's worth reviewing the full report and using it in your treatment planning discussions soon. If any result is unclear or you have concerns about what a finding means for your specific situation, especially if you're experiencing new symptoms, seek medical care promptly. Keeping a copy of your downloadable report handy makes it easier to reference during treatment discussions.

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.

ER/PR/HER2 Test - Breast Cancer Treatment Planning

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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