What's this test for?

This test is ideal if you're experiencing unexplained episodes of low blood sugar, especially if they started in infancy or early childhood, or if you have a family history of familial hyperinsulinism. It's also a good option if you and your partner are of Ashkenazi-Jewish descent and are planning a pregnancy, since carrier status for this condition is more common in that population. The test looks for two specific gene changes linked to the body's inability to properly control insulin production.

What's included in this test?

This test checks for two specific changes in the ABCC8 gene that are known to cause familial hyperinsulinism, particularly common in people of Ashkenazi-Jewish ancestry. Testing for these variants matters because they explain the majority of cases in that population, so a positive or negative result gives clear, actionable information about carrier status or diagnosis.

What happens after I get my results?

Your results will show up in your account with a clear explanation of what a positive or negative finding means for each gene variant tested. If a pathogenic variant is found, the report outlines what that means for you or your family planning, and if you're symptomatic with low blood sugar episodes, it's a good idea to seek medical care for further evaluation soon rather than waiting. You can download a standard lab report directly from your account at any time, and if you retest in the future, you can track results over time using the trends feature.

How can I naturally support healthy blood sugar regulation?

While genetic variants like those causing familial hyperinsulinism can't be changed through lifestyle, you can support more stable blood sugar day-to-day by eating small, frequent meals with protein and fiber to avoid sudden drops. Avoiding long stretches without food, especially overnight, and keeping fast-acting sugar sources on hand can help manage symptoms of low blood sugar. Regular monitoring of blood sugar patterns can also help you notice trends early. These steps support symptom management but do not replace genetic evaluation for an inherited condition.

When will I get my results?

Results for this test are typically ready within about 7 days of your sample being processed at the lab. You'll receive a notification once your results are available, and you can log into your account to view the full report at that time.

Who should consider this test?

This test is a good fit for people with a personal or family history of unexplained low blood sugar episodes, particularly starting in infancy. It's also recommended for couples of Ashkenazi-Jewish descent who are planning to have children and want to understand their carrier status before or during pregnancy. Anyone with a close relative diagnosed with familial hyperinsulinism may also want to consider testing.

What symptoms indicate I may need this test?

Common signs include recurring episodes of low blood sugar such as shakiness, sweating, confusion, or fainting, especially when they happen after periods without food. In infants, symptoms can include jitteriness, poor feeding, lethargy, or seizures caused by very low blood sugar levels. If these symptoms run in your family or appeared early in life, this test can help identify an underlying genetic cause.

What is familial hyperinsulinism and why does it matter?

Familial hyperinsulinism is an inherited condition where the body produces too much insulin, causing blood sugar to drop too low too often. It matters because repeated or severe low blood sugar episodes, especially in babies and young children, can affect growth and development if not identified and managed. Knowing you carry a related gene variant also matters for family planning decisions.

What causes a positive result for this genetic variant?

A positive result means you carry one or both of the specific ABCC8 gene changes tested, which are inherited from a parent. This is not something caused by diet, lifestyle, or environment — it's a change in your genetic code passed down through your family. Having one copy typically makes you a carrier, while two copies can cause the condition itself.

What should I do if my results show a gene variant?

If your results show a positive finding, the report will explain whether you're a carrier or have a form of the condition. It's a good idea to seek medical care to discuss what this means for your health or for future pregnancies, and to consider testing for close family members who may also carry the variant. Keeping a copy of your results for family health records is also recommended.

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.

Familial Hyperinsulinism Test - Genetic Carrier Screening

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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