What's this test for?

This test is ideal if you're navigating a breast cancer diagnosis and need to understand your tumor's specific characteristics. It checks whether your tumor cells have too much of a protein called HER-2, which affects how your cancer may behave and which treatments are likely to work best. Knowing your HER-2 status helps guide decisions about targeted therapy options.

What's included in this test?

This test looks at the HER-2 protein on tumor tissue using a method called immunohistochemistry (IHC), which stains the sample to see how much HER-2 is present on cell surfaces. If the IHC result lands in an unclear middle zone, the lab automatically performs a second, more precise test called FISH to confirm whether the HER-2 gene is amplified. Together, these methods give a reliable answer about your tumor's HER-2 status, which matters because it directly influences which treatments are likely to be effective.

What happens after I get my results?

Your results will appear in your secure account along with an explanation of what the HER-2 status findings mean. If your initial IHC result comes back in a borderline range, this test automatically reflexes to FISH testing for a more definitive answer, so you may see both results explained together. A downloadable standard lab report is available in your account, and you can use the trends feature to keep a record of this result alongside any future testing. Because this result directly affects treatment planning, it's important to act on it promptly.

How can I naturally support my body during cancer treatment?

While no natural approach changes your HER-2 status, supporting your overall health can help you feel better during this process. Eating a balanced diet with plenty of protein, staying hydrated, getting light physical activity when possible, and prioritizing sleep can help your body cope with treatment demands. Reducing alcohol and avoiding smoking are also known to support better outcomes during cancer care.

When will I get my results?

Results are typically ready within about 7 days. Because this test may involve a reflex from IHC to FISH testing, some samples take a bit longer to complete both steps. You'll be notified as soon as your results are available in your account.

Who should consider this test?

This test is generally considered for women who have been diagnosed with breast carcinoma and need more information about the tumor's biology. It's specifically useful when treatment planning depends on knowing whether the tumor overexpresses HER-2. This test is a good next step when your care plan calls for confirming HER-2 status before starting or adjusting therapy.

What does a positive HER-2 result mean?

A positive or high HER-2 result means your tumor cells have more of this growth-related protein than normal, which can cause the cancer to grow and spread faster. The good news is that this also means certain targeted therapies designed specifically to block HER-2 activity are more likely to be effective for you. This result is a key piece of information used to tailor a treatment strategy suited to your specific cancer type.

What does a negative HER-2 result mean?

A negative or low HER-2 result means your tumor does not have an excess of the HER-2 protein, which means HER-2-targeted therapies would not likely be effective for you. In this case, other treatment approaches are typically better suited to your cancer type. This result helps steer treatment planning away from therapies that wouldn't provide benefit.

What causes HER-2 overexpression?

HER-2 overexpression happens because of a change in the tumor's genetic material that causes cells to make too many copies of the HER-2 gene, leading to excess protein on the cell surface. This isn't something caused by diet, lifestyle, or something you did — it's a characteristic of how the tumor cells themselves developed. It's found in roughly 15-20% of breast cancers.

What should I do if my results are abnormal?

If your results show HER-2 overexpression or any unclear finding, it's important to discuss next steps with your treatment team as soon as possible since this affects therapy choices. Keep a copy of your downloadable lab report handy for your records and any future appointments. Acting quickly on this information helps ensure your treatment plan is matched to your specific cancer type without delay.

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.

HER-2 Tumor Test - Breast Cancer Treatment Guidance

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

[email protected]