What's this test for?

This test is ideal if you or a close family member has had colorectal or related cancers at a young age, or a strong family history of these cancers across generations. It looks for inherited changes in the MSH2 gene (and the nearby EPCAM gene) that raise your lifetime risk for Lynch syndrome, a condition linked to colon, uterine, and other cancers. It's also useful if a relative was already found to carry a mismatch repair gene mutation and you want to know if you inherited it.

What's included in this test?

This panel combines two testing methods that work together for thorough coverage: one reads through the MSH2 gene's DNA sequence letter by letter looking for small changes, while the other scans for larger missing or duplicated chunks of the gene, including a related area on the EPCAM gene. Using both methods matters because Lynch syndrome can be caused by different types of genetic changes, and relying on just one method could miss a mutation that the other would catch.

What happens after I get my results?

Your results will show up securely in your account, with a plain-language explanation of what a positive, negative, or uncertain finding means. If a mutation is found, next steps typically involve more frequent cancer screenings, such as earlier or more regular colonoscopies, so this becomes a long-term monitoring plan rather than a one-time check. You can download the full lab report from your account at any time, and use the trends feature to keep a record of this result alongside any future related testing for you or family planning purposes.

How can I naturally support colorectal cancer risk reduction?

While genetics can't be changed through lifestyle, several habits help lower overall colorectal cancer risk regardless of your genetic status. Eating more fiber-rich foods like vegetables, fruits, and whole grains, limiting red and processed meats, staying physically active, and avoiding smoking and heavy alcohol use all support digestive health. Regular colonoscopy screening remains the most effective way to catch and remove precancerous polyps early, especially important if you carry a Lynch syndrome-related mutation.

When will I get my results?

Results for this test are typically ready within about 7 days after your sample is received at the lab. Genetic tests like this one take a bit longer than standard bloodwork because the lab has to carefully analyze the gene sequence and check for larger structural changes. You'll get a notification as soon as your results are posted to your account.

Who should consider this test?

This test is a good fit for people diagnosed with colorectal cancer who meet specific medical criteria (like early age of onset or a suggestive family pattern), or whose tumor testing showed signs of microsatellite instability. It's also valuable for family members of someone already diagnosed with a mismatch repair gene mutation, since close relatives have up to a 50% chance of carrying the same change. If cancer seems to run heavily in your family, especially colon or uterine cancer, this test can help clarify your personal risk.

What symptoms or history suggest I may need this test?

Key signs include being diagnosed with colorectal or uterine cancer before age 50, having multiple family members with these cancers across different generations, or having relatives diagnosed with Lynch syndrome-related mutations already. A personal or family history of multiple different Lynch-associated cancers (colon, uterine, ovarian, stomach, and others) in the same person or family is also a strong indicator. Your tumor showing microsatellite instability (MSI) on a prior pathology report is another common reason this test gets ordered.

What is Lynch syndrome and why does it matter?

Lynch syndrome is an inherited condition caused by changes in genes, including MSH2, that normally repair small errors in your DNA. When these repair genes don't work properly, cells are more likely to build up mutations that can turn into cancer, mainly colorectal and uterine cancer, but also others. Knowing you carry this condition matters because it means starting cancer screenings earlier and doing them more often can catch problems while they're still very treatable.

What does a positive result mean for my family members?

If a mutation is found in your MSH2 or EPCAM gene, each of your first-degree relatives (parents, siblings, children) has roughly a 50% chance of carrying the same change. This doesn't mean they will definitely get cancer, but it does mean genetic testing for them, plus earlier and more frequent screening, becomes a smart idea. Sharing this information with family members, even if it feels difficult, gives them a chance to catch any related cancers early.

How often should I retest or get screened after this test?

This is a one-time genetic test, since your gene sequence doesn't change over time, so there's no need to repeat it. What does change is your screening schedule going forward. If you test positive, colonoscopies are typically recommended much more frequently (often every 1-2 years starting at a younger age) compared to average-risk guidelines, along with possible screening for other Lynch-related cancers.

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 MSH2 Test - Colon 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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