What's this test for?

This test is ideal if you or your care team are investigating an unusual growth, swollen lymph node, or tissue mass that needs a closer look under the microscope. It's a specialized tissue stain used to help sort out whether a biopsy sample is consistent with IgG4-related disease, a condition where the immune system causes swelling and scarring in different organs. It's typically ordered after a biopsy has already been taken, as part of figuring out what's causing unexplained lumps, gland swelling, or organ inflammation.

What's included in this test?

This test uses a special stain (immunohistochemistry) on a tissue sample to count a specific type of immune cell called IgG4+ plasma cells. Looking at how many of these cells are present helps distinguish tissue changes caused by immune-related scarring disease from other look-alike conditions, such as certain tumors. It's a targeted, single-marker test rather than a panel of many measurements.

What happens after I get my results?

Your results will be available in your account, and the report will explain what the findings mean in plain language. Because this is a tissue stain test rather than a blood value, there isn't a numeric range to track over time, but the report will describe whether increased IgG4-positive cells were found in the sample. If your results raise questions or point to a condition needing follow-up, the report will outline sensible next steps. The standard lab report is downloadable from your account at any time.

Who should consider this test?

This test is typically considered for people who already have a tissue biopsy in hand and unexplained symptoms like gland swelling, unexplained lumps, or organ inflammation that hasn't been fully explained by other testing. It's often used when standard imaging or basic bloodwork hasn't given a clear answer. People with a suspected autoimmune or inflammatory tissue condition are the main audience for this stain.

What symptoms indicate I may need this test?

Common reasons to consider this test include unexplained swelling of glands (like the salivary or tear glands), unexplained masses or lumps found on imaging, persistent low-grade inflammation in an organ, or a biopsy that came back with unclear or borderline findings. Some people also pursue this testing after being told they have a mass that needs to be characterized further before deciding on next steps. If you've had a biopsy and are waiting on more detailed answers, this is the kind of follow-up test that can help.

What is IgG4-related disease and why does it matter?

IgG4-related disease is a condition where the immune system mistakenly causes swelling and scar-like tissue buildup in one or more organs, such as the pancreas, salivary glands, or lymph nodes. It matters because it can look like other more serious conditions, including certain cancers, so getting an accurate read on the tissue sample helps guide what happens next. Catching it early generally means the swelling and scarring can be managed before it causes lasting organ damage.

What does a high number of IgG4+ cells mean?

A higher-than-expected count of IgG4+ plasma cells in the tissue sample supports a diagnosis of IgG4-related disease, especially when paired with the right pattern of tissue changes under the microscope. This finding helps rule out other look-alike conditions, like certain inflammatory tumors, which usually show few or no IgG4+ cells. It's one piece of the puzzle, combined with symptoms, imaging, and other lab findings.

What causes elevated IgG4+ cells in tissue?

Elevated IgG4+ cells are most often linked to IgG4-related disease itself, an immune condition where the body produces excess of this specific antibody type in affected tissues. Other inflammatory or autoimmune conditions can sometimes cause mild increases as well, which is why the pattern and degree of increase matter, not just the raw count. Your results should be considered alongside your symptoms and any imaging findings for full context.

How often should I retest?

This is not a routine screening test, so retesting isn't typically done on a regular schedule. If treatment is started for a confirmed condition, retesting a tissue sample is usually only considered if symptoms come back or a new mass or swelling develops. Discuss timing for any repeat biopsy or follow-up testing based on how your condition responds to management.

What should I do if my results are abnormal?

If your report shows an increased number of IgG4+ cells, it's a good idea to keep track of any symptoms like swelling, fatigue, or organ-specific complaints and share this report with whoever is coordinating your care. Practical next steps often include follow-up imaging to monitor affected organs and monitoring for new symptoms in other areas, since this condition can affect multiple organs. If you notice rapid swelling, pain, or signs of organ dysfunction, 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.

IgG4 IHC Tissue Test - Sclerosing Disease Diagnosis

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]