What's this test for?

This test is ideal if you're experiencing unexplained nerve problems like numbness, tingling, muscle weakness, or trouble with balance and coordination, especially alongside a history of lung cancer or a strong suspicion of it. It looks for Anti-Hu antibodies, which the immune system sometimes makes in response to certain tumors, causing nerve and spinal cord symptoms that show up before the cancer itself is found. It's also useful if you have digestive issues combined with nerve symptoms that doctors haven't been able to explain.

How should I prepare for this test?

See the pre-collection instructions on your order confirmation.

What's included in this test?

This test screens for Anti-Hu antibodies, and if the initial screen is positive, it automatically reflexes to a titer (which measures how much antibody is present) and a Western Blot (which confirms the specific antibody type). This layered approach matters because it first checks if the antibody is there, then tells you how strong the immune response is, and finally confirms the finding is accurate and not a false alarm.

What happens after I get my results?

Your results will be available in your account, with each value's normal range clearly explained so you know exactly what your number means. If your result is positive, the report will guide you on next steps, and if the result seems urgent or your symptoms are severe, seek medical care right away rather than waiting. You can download the standard lab report anytime from your account for your records. If you retest in the future, the trends feature lets you track any changes over time.

When will I get my results?

Results are typically ready within about 7 days of your sample being collected. This extra time is needed because the test may involve multiple steps if your initial screen comes back positive and requires the follow-up titer and Western Blot confirmation. You'll be notified as soon as your results are posted to your account.

Who should consider this test?

This test is worth considering if you have unexplained nerve symptoms such as weakness, numbness, or coordination problems, particularly if you smoke or have a history of lung cancer. It's also relevant if you've had unexplained weight loss, digestive trouble, and nerve symptoms together, since these can sometimes point to an underlying tumor triggering an immune response. People already diagnosed with small cell lung cancer who develop new neurological symptoms may also want this screening.

What symptoms indicate I may need this test?

Common symptoms include numbness or tingling in the hands and feet, muscle weakness, loss of coordination or balance, and trouble with memory or thinking clearly. Some people also notice digestive problems like nausea, bloating, or difficulty swallowing, since the antibody can affect nerves controlling the gut. If these symptoms appear suddenly and don't have an obvious cause, this test can help identify whether an autoimmune reaction is involved.

What is Anti-Hu antibody and why does it matter?

Anti-Hu is an antibody your immune system sometimes produces when it's fighting certain cancers, but instead of only attacking the tumor, it also mistakenly attacks healthy nerve cells. This mix-up can cause a range of nerve-related problems, from numbness to muscle weakness to digestive issues, often before a tumor is even diagnosed. Finding this antibody early can prompt further cancer screening and help explain otherwise mysterious neurological symptoms.

What does a positive Anti-Hu result mean?

A positive result means your immune system has produced antibodies that are known to attack nerve tissue, often in connection with an underlying tumor, most commonly small cell lung cancer. This doesn't diagnose cancer by itself, but it's a strong signal that further evaluation is a good idea. Simple next steps include following up with additional imaging or cancer screening and keeping track of any new or worsening symptoms.

How often should I retest?

If your first result is negative but your symptoms continue or worsen, retesting in a few months can help catch any new developments. If you've already tested positive and are being monitored, retesting the titer periodically can help track whether antibody levels are rising or falling over time. Your trends dashboard makes it easy to see these changes at a glance.

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.

Anti-Hu Antibody Test - Nerve & Cancer Symptom Screen

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]