What's this test for?

This test is ideal if you're concerned about a family history of colon cancer or have relatives diagnosed with hereditary non-polyposis colon cancer (HNPCC), also called Lynch syndrome. It helps identify whether a tumor sample is missing the MSH6 protein, which is a key clue that a hereditary cancer syndrome may be present. This is especially useful for people trying to understand their own or their family's cancer risk before deciding on next steps.

What's included in this test?

This test uses a lab technique called immunohistochemistry (IHC) to check whether the MSH6 protein is present in tumor tissue. Looking at this single protein matters because its absence is a strong signal of a DNA repair problem linked to hereditary colon cancer risk, helping guide decisions about further testing and monitoring.

What happens after I get my results?

Your results will appear in your account along with an explanation of what a normal versus abnormal (deficient) MSH6 protein pattern means. If the result suggests MSH6 is missing, a common next step is discussing further genetic testing or more frequent cancer screening with your family and care team, since this can run in families. You can download the full lab report from your account at any time, and if you retest in the future, your results will be tracked over time so you can see any changes.

How can I naturally support colon health?

While no lifestyle change can replace genetic risk information, eating more fiber, fruits, and vegetables while cutting back on processed and red meat supports overall colon health. Regular physical activity, maintaining a healthy weight, and limiting alcohol and tobacco use are also linked to lower colon cancer risk. These habits are especially worth adopting if your results point toward increased hereditary risk.

When will I get my results?

Results are typically ready within about 7 days of your sample being processed at the lab. You'll get a notification as soon as your report is available in your account, so there's no need to call or follow up.

Who should consider this test?

This test is a good fit for people with a personal or family history of colon cancer, especially if relatives were diagnosed at a young age or across multiple generations. It's also useful for families already known to carry Lynch syndrome-related conditions who want to understand tumor-specific findings. If colon cancer seems to run in your family, this test can provide helpful clues.

What symptoms indicate I may need this test?

This test isn't based on symptoms you feel yourself — it's typically used after a colon cancer diagnosis or when there's a strong family pattern of the disease. Signs that prompt this kind of testing usually come from a family history of colon, uterine, or other related cancers, particularly at younger ages. If your family has multiple cancer diagnoses across generations, this test can help clarify whether a hereditary pattern is involved.

What is MSH6 and why does it matter?

MSH6 is one of several genes that work like a spell-checker for your DNA, fixing small errors that happen when cells divide. When MSH6 doesn't work properly, these errors pile up, which can lead to a specific type of cancer risk called microsatellite instability. Checking for MSH6 protein loss helps identify people and families who may benefit from closer cancer screening or genetic counseling.

What does an abnormal (MSH6-deficient) result mean?

An abnormal result means the MSH6 protein is missing from the tumor sample, which points toward a possible hereditary cancer condition like Lynch syndrome. This doesn't confirm a diagnosis on its own, but it's a strong signal that follow-up genetic testing may be worthwhile. Sharing this result with family members can also help them understand their own potential risk.

What should I do if my results are abnormal?

If your MSH6 result comes back abnormal, a reasonable next step is pursuing broader genetic testing to look for an underlying inherited mutation. It's also worth letting close relatives know, since they may want to get tested too. In the meantime, keeping up with recommended cancer screenings, like colonoscopies, becomes even more important.

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.

MSH6 IHC Test - Hereditary Colon Cancer Screening

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]

MSH6 IHC Test for Hereditary Colon Cancer Risk

MSH6, IHC without Interpretation

Prescription & all lab fees included

Doctor's guidance included

Fast & convenient

Prescription & all lab fees included

Doctor's guidance included

Fast & convenient

What's this test for?

What's included in this test?

What happens after I get my results?

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MSH6 IHC Test for Hereditary Colon Cancer Risk

Prescription & all lab fees included

Doctor's guidance included

Fast & convenient

1,000,000+ blood tests later, here's what our customers say