What's this test for?

This test is ideal if you're experiencing unexplained swelling in your legs, ankles, or around your eyes, foamy or bubbly urine, or you've been told you have protein in your urine. These can be signs of a kidney condition called membranous nephritis, where the kidney's filters get damaged by the immune system. This test helps identify whether a specific antibody linked to this condition is present in your blood.

What happens after I get my results?

Your results will show up in your account along with an explanation of what a normal versus abnormal antibody level means. If your antibody level is elevated, next steps typically include seeking medical care promptly since this can point to an active kidney condition that needs attention. If you're already being monitored for a kidney issue, retesting over time can help you see whether the antibody level is rising, falling, or stable. You can download the full lab report anytime, and the trends feature lets you track how your levels change over multiple tests.

Who should consider this test?

This test is a good fit for people who have unexplained swelling, foamy urine, or high protein levels found in a urine test. It's also useful for people already diagnosed with membranous nephritis who want to track how their antibody levels are changing during or after treatment. If kidney problems run in your family or you've had unusual urine test results, this can be a helpful next step.

What symptoms indicate I may need this test?

Common signs include swelling in the legs, feet, ankles, or face (especially around the eyes), foamy or frothy urine, unexplained weight gain from fluid retention, and fatigue. Some people also notice higher blood pressure or blood in their urine. If you've had a urine test showing high protein levels, this antibody test can help clarify the cause.

How can I naturally support kidney health?

Staying well hydrated, reducing salt intake, and eating a balanced diet with plenty of vegetables can help ease the workload on your kidneys. Limiting processed foods and excess protein can also reduce strain on kidney filters. Regular light exercise and avoiding unnecessary use of pain relievers like NSAIDs can support overall kidney function, though these habits work alongside, not instead of, proper monitoring.

What is PLA2R and why does it matter?

PLA2R stands for Phospholipase A2 Receptor, a protein found on the surface of kidney filtering cells called podocytes. In some people, the immune system mistakenly attacks this protein, creating antibodies that damage the kidney's filtering system and cause protein to leak into the urine. Measuring these antibodies helps identify this specific autoimmune cause of kidney filter damage, called primary membranous nephritis.

What does a high PLA2R antibody level mean?

A high level usually means your immune system is actively producing antibodies that are attacking your kidney's filtering cells, which is consistent with active primary membranous nephritis. Higher levels are often linked to more active disease, while a drop in levels over time can be a sign that the condition is improving. If your level comes back elevated, it's important to seek medical care to discuss appropriate next steps.

What causes a high PLA2R antibody result?

A high result is caused by the immune system producing antibodies against the PLA2R protein on kidney cells, which is the hallmark of primary membranous nephritis. This autoimmune response can happen without a clear trigger, though it's sometimes associated with other underlying conditions. Testing helps confirm whether this specific antibody, rather than another cause, is behind kidney-related symptoms.

How often should I retest?

If you're newly diagnosed or undergoing treatment, retesting every few months can help track whether antibody levels are dropping in response to therapy. Once levels stabilize or reach undetectable ranges, testing less frequently, such as every 6-12 months, may be enough to watch for relapse. Your retesting schedule should reflect how your levels have changed in the past, so tracking trends over time is especially useful.

What should I do if my results are abnormal?

If your PLA2R antibody level is elevated, seek medical care to discuss further evaluation of your kidney health, since this often requires additional testing and monitoring. In the meantime, keep track of any symptoms like swelling or changes in urination, and consider retesting to see if levels are trending up or down. Avoid making major changes to diet or medication without guidance, and use the trends feature to monitor your progress.

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.

PLA2R Antibody Test - Kidney Disease Monitoring

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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