What's this test for?

This test is ideal if you're being monitored for Kaposi's sarcoma or a related condition and need to track how much HHV-8 virus is in your blood. It's also useful if you're undergoing treatment for an HHV-8 related illness and need to see whether the virus level is going up or down. This test does not diagnose Kaposi's sarcoma itself, but it measures the amount of virus that's associated with it.

What happens after I get my results?

Your results will show up in your account along with an explanation of what a normal versus elevated viral level looks like. If your level is elevated, next steps usually involve retesting on a schedule to see whether the number is trending up or down over time, especially if you're in treatment. A standard lab report is available to download directly from your account, and you can track your results over time using the trends feature. If your result comes back very high or you're feeling unwell, seek medical care right away.

How can I naturally support my immune system while managing HHV-8?

While there's no natural remedy that eliminates HHV-8, keeping your immune system strong can help your body keep the virus in check. Getting consistent sleep, eating a nutrient-dense diet, managing stress, and avoiding smoking and excess alcohol all support a healthier immune response. Regular, moderate exercise can also help, but always pace it around how you're feeling. These habits work alongside any treatment plan, not as a replacement for it.

When will I get my results?

Results are typically ready within about 7 days of your sample being collected. You'll get a notification once your report is available in your account. If your situation is urgent, don't wait on routine turnaround time — seek medical care sooner.

Who should consider this test?

This test is a good fit for people already known to carry HHV-8 who need to monitor viral activity over time, particularly those with or at risk for Kaposi's sarcoma, primary effusion lymphoma, or multicentric Castleman's disease. It's also useful for people currently in treatment who want objective numbers to track progress. People with weakened immune systems, such as those managing HIV, may also find this test relevant for ongoing monitoring.

What symptoms indicate I may need this test?

Signs that might prompt this test include unusual skin lesions or purplish patches, unexplained swollen lymph nodes, persistent fevers, night sweats, or unexplained weight loss, especially in someone with a weakened immune system. If you have a known HHV-8 related condition and are noticing new or worsening symptoms, this test can help clarify what's happening at the viral level. Always take significant or rapidly worsening symptoms seriously and seek care quickly.

What is HHV-8 and why does it matter?

HHV-8, or human herpesvirus 8, is a virus linked to several rare conditions, most notably Kaposi's sarcoma, a type of cancer that affects the skin and other tissues. It also plays a role in some rare lymph node and blood vessel disorders. Knowing how much virus is present in your blood helps track disease activity and see if treatment is working.

What does a high HHV-8 viral load mean?

A high result means there's a larger amount of the virus actively circulating in your blood, which can suggest the virus is more active or that a related condition may be progressing. It doesn't automatically mean a specific disease is present, but it's a signal worth acting on quickly. This usually calls for closer monitoring and prompt medical attention, especially if paired with new symptoms.

What causes HHV-8 levels to rise?

Viral levels can rise when the immune system is weakened, such as during HIV infection, immune-suppressing medications, or an active flare of an HHV-8 related condition. Stress, poor sleep, and other illnesses that tax the immune system can also make it harder for your body to keep the virus suppressed. If your levels are climbing, it's worth looking at what's going on with your overall immune health.

How often should I retest?

Retesting frequency depends on your individual situation, especially if you're in active treatment or monitoring known disease activity. Many people in this situation retest every few months, but those actively being treated may need more frequent checks. Use the trends feature in your account to keep an eye on the pattern 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.

HHV-8 DNA PCR Test - Kaposi's Sarcoma Viral Monitoring

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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