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 unexplained weight gain from fluid retention. These can be signs of a kidney condition called primary membranous nephropathy, where the kidney's filtering units are attacked by the immune system. This test helps identify whether antibodies linked to this condition are present in your blood.

What's included in this test?

This test measures a single, highly specific antibody that targets a protein found on kidney filtering cells. Detecting this antibody matters because it can confirm an autoimmune cause of kidney filter damage without needing an invasive kidney biopsy, and its levels often reflect how active the disease currently is.

What happens after I get my results?

Your results will be available in your account, with each value's normal range explained in plain language. If your antibody level is elevated, next steps typically involve retesting to track how the level changes over time, since PLA2R antibody levels tend to rise and fall along with disease activity. The standard lab report can be downloaded directly from your account, and you can track your results over time using the trends feature to see how your levels change between tests.

Who should consider this test?

This test is a good option if you have unexplained protein in your urine, swelling, or a prior diagnosis of nephrotic syndrome and want to understand if an autoimmune cause is involved. It's also useful for people already diagnosed with membranous nephropathy who want to monitor whether their treatment is working or if the condition is coming back. People with a family history of kidney disease who are experiencing new symptoms may also want to consider this test.

What symptoms indicate I may need this test?

Common symptoms include swelling in the legs, feet, or around the eyes, foamy or frothy urine, sudden weight gain from fluid buildup, fatigue, and loss of appetite. Some people also notice high blood pressure or blood clots as the condition progresses. If you notice several of these symptoms together, this test can help clarify whether an autoimmune kidney condition is the cause.

When will I get my results?

Results are typically ready within about 7 days of your lab visit. Once processed, they'll be uploaded directly to your secure online account so you can view and download them as soon as they're available.

What does high PLA2R antibody level mean?

A high or positive result suggests that your immune system is producing antibodies that attack a protein on your kidney's filtering cells, which is a strong indicator of primary membranous nephropathy. Higher levels are often linked to more active disease and a greater chance of ongoing protein loss in the urine. This finding is usually followed by closer monitoring and lifestyle adjustments like reducing sodium intake to help manage fluid retention.

How can I naturally support kidney health while managing this condition?

Reducing salt intake can help control swelling and blood pressure, while staying well-hydrated supports normal kidney function. Eating a balanced diet with moderate, high-quality protein and plenty of fruits and vegetables can ease strain on the kidneys. Regular light exercise and avoiding over-the-counter pain relievers that stress the kidneys, like NSAIDs, are also simple everyday steps that can help.

How often should I retest?

If you've been diagnosed with membranous nephropathy, retesting every 3 to 6 months is common to track whether antibody levels are falling with treatment or rising with a relapse. If your first result is negative but symptoms continue, retesting after a few months may be worthwhile. Tracking results over time in your account makes it easy to see these trends clearly.

What should I do if my results are abnormal?

If your antibody level comes back elevated, it's a good idea to pair this with a urine protein test to get a fuller picture of kidney function. Making dietary changes like lowering sodium and monitoring blood pressure at home can help manage symptoms in the meantime. If you notice significant swelling, very foamy urine, or shortness of breath, seek medical care promptly, as these can indicate the condition is progressing.

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 Detection

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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