What's this test for?

This test is ideal if you're currently facing a non-squamous non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) diagnosis and you or your care team are exploring immunotherapy options. It looks at tumor tissue to see if a protein called PD-L1 is present, which can help guide decisions around treatment with certain immunotherapy drugs. It's typically used as part of a broader lung cancer workup, not as a general screening test.

What happens after I get my results?

Your results will be available in your account, with the PD-L1 expression level explained in plain terms alongside what a positive or negative finding generally means. Because this test relates to an active cancer diagnosis, the recommended next step is to bring these results into your ongoing treatment planning as soon as possible rather than waiting. A standard lab report is downloadable directly from your account for your records or to share as needed. If you ever retest, the trends feature lets you track changes in expression status over time.

What's included in this test?

This test measures PD-L1 (Programmed Death-Ligand 1) protein expression using the FDA-approved PD-L1 IHC 28-8 pharmDx assay on formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded (FFPE) non-squamous NSCLC tumor tissue. Checking for this protein matters because its presence has been linked to how well certain immunotherapy drugs, like nivolumab, may work for non-squamous NSCLC. It's a targeted, single-purpose test rather than a broad panel.

Who should consider this test?

This test is generally considered by people who have already been diagnosed with non-squamous non-small cell lung cancer and are weighing immunotherapy as a treatment path. It's also relevant if treatment planning includes evaluating whether PD-L1-targeting drugs are a reasonable option. This is not a general wellness or early-detection screening test for the general population.

When will I get my results?

Results are typically ready within about 7 days of your sample being processed at the lab. Because this test involves detailed tissue analysis, turnaround can occasionally vary slightly depending on sample complexity. You'll be notified as soon as your results are posted to your account.

What symptoms indicate I may need this test?

This test isn't ordered based on symptoms directly — it's used after an NSCLC diagnosis has already been made, often through imaging and a tissue biopsy. Symptoms that typically lead to that initial lung cancer workup include a persistent cough, unexplained weight loss, chest pain, or shortness of breath. If you're experiencing these and haven't yet had a diagnostic workup, that would come before this specific test.

What is PD-L1 and why does it matter?

PD-L1 is a protein that some cancer cells use to hide from your immune system, essentially telling immune cells to stand down. When tumor cells show higher levels of PD-L1, certain immunotherapy drugs designed to block this protein tend to work more effectively. Knowing your PD-L1 status helps clarify whether this type of treatment approach is likely to be a good fit.

What does a high PD-L1 expression result mean?

A high or positive PD-L1 expression result means a larger share of your tumor cells are displaying this protein, which research has associated with a better chance of responding to nivolumab and similar immunotherapy drugs. It doesn't guarantee a specific outcome, but it's considered a favorable marker when evaluating treatment options. This result is usually discussed as part of a larger treatment planning conversation.

What does a low or negative PD-L1 expression result mean?

A low or negative result means fewer tumor cells are showing the PD-L1 protein, which may mean immunotherapy drugs targeting this pathway are less likely to be effective on their own. This doesn't rule out immunotherapy entirely, since other treatment combinations exist, but it does shift the conversation toward alternative or combined approaches. Your full report will explain the specific expression percentage found in your sample.

What should I do if my results are abnormal or unclear?

If your PD-L1 result comes back unclear or borderline, it's reasonable to ask about retesting on a fresh tissue sample, since expression can sometimes vary across different parts of a tumor. Bring your downloadable lab report into any treatment planning discussions so the specific expression percentage is on record. Because this test ties directly into cancer treatment decisions, don't delay acting on these results — timing matters for treatment planning.

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.

PD-L1 Lung Test - Nivolumab Immunotherapy Guidance

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]

PD-L1 Lung Cancer Test for Nivolumab Treatment Planning

PD-L1 Lung (Nivolumab), IHC

Prescription & fees included

Easy to understand results

Fast & convenient

Prescription & fees included

Easy to understand results

Fast & convenient

What's this test for?

What's included in this test?

What happens after I get my results?

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PD-L1 Lung Cancer Test for Nivolumab Treatment Planning

Prescription & fees included

Easy to understand results

Fast & convenient

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