What's this test for?

This test is ideal if you or someone close to you has been diagnosed with a non-lung cancer and immunotherapy with Nivolumab (Opdivo) is being considered as a treatment option. It checks whether the tumor tissue expresses a protein called PD-L1, which helps determine if this type of immunotherapy is likely to be a good fit. This test is typically ordered as part of a broader cancer treatment planning process, not as a general screening test.

What happens after I get my results?

Your results will appear in your online account along with an explanation of what the PD-L1 expression level means. Because this is a specialized tumor marker test tied to treatment planning, next steps usually involve discussing the report with your cancer treatment team so it can be factored into therapy decisions. You can download the full lab report from your account at any time, and if repeat testing is ever needed for a new tissue sample, you'll be able to track results over time using the trends feature.

What's included in this test?

This test measures PD-L1 (Programmed Death-Ligand 1) protein expression on tumor cells using immunohistochemistry (IHC) staining with the PD-L1 IHC 28-8 pharmDx assay. Checking this protein matters because tumors with higher PD-L1 levels are more likely to respond to Nivolumab immunotherapy, which helps guide whether this treatment is a reasonable choice for FDA-approved non-lung tumor types.

How can I naturally support my immune system during cancer treatment?

While no natural remedy replaces cancer treatment, simple habits can support your body's overall resilience. Eating a nutrient-dense diet with plenty of vegetables, fruits, and lean protein, staying physically active as tolerated, prioritizing sleep, and managing stress through relaxation techniques can all help your body handle treatment better. Always pair these habits with the treatment plan your cancer care team has laid out.

When will I get my results?

Results for this specialized tissue test are typically ready within about 7 days after the lab receives your sample. This timeframe reflects the detailed staining and review process required for this type of tumor marker analysis. You'll receive a notification as soon as your results are posted to your account.

Who should consider this test?

This test is meant for people who have already received a non-lung cancer diagnosis and are exploring Nivolumab immunotherapy as part of their treatment plan. It's specifically for FDA-approved tumor types tied to this drug — other tumor types or other immunotherapy drugs require a different, more specific test. If you're unsure which version applies to your situation, check with whoever is coordinating your cancer care before ordering.

What symptoms indicate I may need this test?

This isn't a symptom-based test — it's ordered after a cancer diagnosis has already been made, not because of specific symptoms. If you've been told your tumor type may respond to immunotherapy, or if your cancer team is exploring treatment options beyond chemotherapy or surgery, this test may be relevant. It's really about treatment planning rather than catching early warning signs.

What is PD-L1 and why does it matter?

PD-L1 is a protein some cancer cells use to hide from your immune system, essentially telling immune cells to leave the tumor alone. Certain immunotherapy drugs, like Nivolumab, work by blocking this signal so your immune system can recognize and attack the cancer. Knowing how much PD-L1 a tumor has helps predict whether this drug is likely to work well for that specific cancer.

What does a high PD-L1 result mean?

A high PD-L1 result means the tumor cells are expressing a lot of this protein, which generally suggests the cancer may respond well to PD-L1 blocking immunotherapy like Nivolumab. This is generally seen as encouraging news when considering this treatment path. Your full report will include the specific expression percentage and how it compares to the threshold used for treatment decisions.

What causes low or high PD-L1 expression?

PD-L1 expression levels are influenced by the tumor's genetic makeup, the type of cancer, and how the tumor interacts with surrounding immune cells. It isn't something you can change with diet or lifestyle since it's a built-in feature of the tumor tissue itself. This is simply information the test uncovers to help match you with the most appropriate treatment option.

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 Non-Lung IHC Test - Nivolumab Treatment Eligibility

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 Non-Lung Tumor Test for Nivolumab Immunotherapy

PD-L1 Non-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 Non-Lung Tumor Test for Nivolumab Immunotherapy

Prescription & fees included

Easy to understand results

Fast & convenient

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