What's this test for?

This test is ideal if you're immunocompromised or have symptoms like unusual skin lesions, unexplained swelling, or persistent fatigue that could point to an HHV-8 infection. It's also useful if you've been diagnosed with a condition like Kaposi's Sarcoma or a related lymph disorder and need to confirm whether HHV-8 is involved. Many people with weakened immune systems, including those living with HIV, use this test to check for this specific virus.

What happens after I get my results?

Your results will show up in your online account as either positive or negative, with a clear explanation of what that means. If your result is positive, next steps usually involve further evaluation of any related symptoms and possibly repeat testing to monitor the virus over time. You can download a standard lab report straight from your account at any time, and use the trends feature to track results if you test again in the future. If your result is negative but symptoms continue, retesting or additional testing for other causes may be a reasonable next step.

Who should consider this test?

People with weakened immune systems, such as those living with HIV or who have had an organ transplant, are the main group who benefit from this test. It's also useful for anyone who has unusual skin lesions or swelling that a clinician suspects could be Kaposi's Sarcoma or a related condition. If you've had close contact with someone diagnosed with an HHV-8-related illness, testing can offer peace of mind.

What symptoms indicate I may need this test?

Purple, red, or brown skin lesions, unexplained swelling in the lymph nodes, or persistent fevers and fatigue can all be signs worth checking with this test. People with weakened immune systems who notice new or unusual skin changes should pay close attention. Swelling in the abdomen or chest area, especially alongside these other symptoms, is another reason to consider testing.

When will I get my results?

Results are typically ready within about 7 days of your sample being processed at the lab. You'll get a notification as soon as your results are available in your secure online account. This timeframe allows the lab to run the specialized PCR technology needed to detect HHV-8 DNA accurately.

What is HHV-8 and why does it matter?

HHV-8, or human herpesvirus 8, is a virus that can stay dormant in the body for years without causing problems. In people with weakened immune systems, it can become active and lead to conditions like Kaposi's Sarcoma, a type of cancer that affects the skin and blood vessels, or rare lymph node disorders. Knowing whether you carry this virus helps you and those monitoring your health stay ahead of potential complications.

What does a positive HHV-8 result mean?

A positive result means the virus's genetic material was found in your blood, indicating active infection rather than just past exposure. This doesn't automatically mean you have Kaposi's Sarcoma or another disease, but it does mean the virus is present and active in your body. Extra monitoring, especially if you have a weakened immune system, is a sensible next step.

What causes HHV-8 to become active?

HHV-8 often stays inactive for years, but a weakened immune system from conditions like HIV, chemotherapy, or organ transplant medications can allow it to reactivate. Stress on the body and other infections can also play a role in triggering the virus. Keeping your immune system as strong as possible through good nutrition, sleep, and stress management may help keep the virus in check.

How often should I retest for HHV-8?

If you have a weakened immune system and a history of HHV-8, periodic retesting every few months can help track whether the virus is active. If you test negative but continue to have symptoms or risk factors, retesting after any new symptoms appear is a good idea. Your specific retesting schedule should be based on your personal health situation and any related conditions you're managing.

What should I do if my results are abnormal?

If your result is positive, keep track of any new or worsening skin changes, swelling, or fatigue and consider follow-up testing to monitor the virus over time. Supporting your immune system with good nutrition, adequate rest, and avoiding unnecessary immune stressors can help. If you notice rapidly growing skin lesions or severe symptoms, seek medical care promptly.

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.

HHV-8 DNA PCR Test - Kaposi's Sarcoma 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

[email protected]

HHV-8 DNA Test — Kaposi's Sarcoma Virus Screening

Herpesvirus 8 (HHV-8) DNA, Qualitative Real-Time PCR

Prescription & all lab fees included

Doctor's guidance included

Fast & convenient

Prescription & all lab fees included

Doctor's guidance included

Fast & convenient

What's this test for?

What happens after I get my results?

Who should consider this test?

Here’s why 1,000,000+ customers chose us for affordable hassle-free private blood testing.

Find a lab near you

HHV-8 DNA Test — Kaposi's Sarcoma Virus Screening

Prescription & all lab fees included

Doctor's guidance included

Fast & convenient

1,000,000+ blood tests later, here's what our customers say