What's this test for?

This test is ideal if you're experiencing a personal or family history of colorectal cancer, especially if diagnosed at a young age or across multiple generations. It's also a good fit if you've been told your tumor showed unusual patterns (called microsatellite instability) or if a close relative has already been diagnosed with Lynch syndrome. Finding out whether you carry a related gene change can help guide decisions about future cancer screening.

What's included in this test?

This test looks at the MLH1 gene, one of several genes responsible for repairing small errors that naturally occur in DNA. It uses two methods together: one that reads through the gene's code looking for small typos, and another that checks for larger missing or duplicated pieces of the gene, since either type of change can raise cancer risk.

What happens after I get my results?

Your results will be available in your account, with each finding explained in plain language so you understand what it means for you. If a gene change is found, next steps typically include more frequent cancer screening and discussing testing with blood relatives who may share the same risk. If no change is found but you still have strong risk factors, retesting or broader panel testing may be worth considering over time. You can download the full lab report from your account and use the trends feature to keep a record of your results over time.

Who should consider this test?

This test is best suited for people who've had colorectal cancer that meets specific risk criteria, people whose tumor testing showed microsatellite instability, or close relatives of someone already diagnosed with a mismatch repair gene mutation. It's also useful for anyone building a clearer picture of their family cancer risk to plan earlier or more frequent screening.

When will I get my results?

Results are typically ready within about 7 days of your sample being processed at the lab. Because this is a detailed genetic test, it takes a bit longer than routine bloodwork, but you'll be notified as soon as your results are posted to your account.

What symptoms indicate I may need this test?

Lynch syndrome itself doesn't cause symptoms directly, so this test is more about family and personal history than physical signs. Reasons to consider it include being diagnosed with colorectal or endometrial cancer before age 50, having multiple relatives with these cancers, or being told your tumor had a specific lab finding called microsatellite instability. If any of these apply to you, this test can help clarify your risk.

What is Lynch syndrome and why does it matter?

Lynch syndrome is an inherited condition that raises your lifetime risk of colorectal, endometrial, and some other cancers because of a change in one of the body's DNA repair genes, including MLH1. It matters because knowing you carry this change means you and your family can start cancer screening earlier and more often, which can catch problems before they become serious.

What does a positive result mean?

A positive result means a change was found in the MLH1 gene that's linked to a higher risk of colorectal and related cancers. This doesn't mean you have cancer now, but it does mean earlier and more frequent screening, such as colonoscopies, is a smart next step. Sharing this information with blood relatives is also important since they may carry the same change.

What does a negative result mean?

A negative result means no change was found in the specific parts of the MLH1 gene this test examines. If your family has a known mutation that wasn't found in you, this is reassuring, but if no one in your family has been tested yet, a negative result doesn't completely rule out Lynch syndrome since other genes can also cause it. Continuing routine cancer screening based on your personal risk is still recommended.

What should I do if my results are abnormal?

If a mutation is found, the most useful next step is arranging more frequent colorectal and related cancer screening, since catching changes early greatly improves outcomes. It's also worth letting close biological relatives know, since they may want to get tested themselves. Keeping a record of your results over time using the trends feature can help you and any future testing stay organized.

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.

Lynch Syndrome MLH1 Test - Colorectal Cancer Risk

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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