What's this test for?

This test is ideal if you're experiencing balance problems, uncoordinated movements, dizziness, or unexplained difficulty walking, especially if you also have a history of Hodgkin's lymphoma or unexplained lymph node swelling. It looks for a specific antibody that can attack the part of the brain controlling coordination. This is a specialized test typically used when more common causes of these symptoms have already been ruled out.

What's included in this test?

This is a single, targeted antibody test rather than a broad panel, so it focuses on one specific marker linked to a rare autoimmune reaction. It's ordered specifically to identify a pattern of antibody activity connected to certain nervous system symptoms and their possible link to cancer. Because it's highly specialized, it's usually not used as a general screening test.

What happens after I get my results?

Your results will show up in your account with a clear explanation of what a positive or negative result means. If your result is positive, the report will explain that further evaluation for an underlying cancer, particularly Hodgkin's lymphoma, is an important next step, and you should seek medical care promptly. You can download a standard lab report from your account at any time, and if you retest in the future, the trends feature lets you track any changes side by side.

Who should consider this test?

People who have new, unexplained problems with balance, coordination, or eye movements, especially alongside a current or past diagnosis of Hodgkin's lymphoma, may want to consider this test. It's also relevant for anyone whose care team is investigating a possible paraneoplastic cause for neurological symptoms. This is a specialized test, not a routine wellness check.

What symptoms indicate I may need this test?

Common symptoms linked to this condition include a wobbly or unsteady walk, clumsiness with hands, slurred speech, double vision, or dizziness that comes on over weeks rather than suddenly. These symptoms happen because the antibody can affect the cerebellum, the part of the brain that fine-tunes movement and balance. If these symptoms are severe, sudden, or rapidly getting worse, seek medical care right away.

What is DNER and why does it matter?

DNER is a protein found on specific brain cells called Purkinje cells, which help coordinate smooth, balanced movement. In some people, especially those with Hodgkin's lymphoma, the immune system mistakenly makes antibodies against DNER, and this attack can damage those brain cells, causing balance and coordination problems. Finding this antibody can be an important clue in figuring out the root cause of unexplained neurological symptoms.

What does a positive result mean?

A positive result means the specific antibody was detected in your blood, which is strongly associated with an autoimmune reaction affecting brain cells involved in coordination. This finding is also linked to Hodgkin's lymphoma in many cases, so it's an important signal to pursue further evaluation quickly. Simple next steps include following up with imaging or additional testing to check for an underlying cancer.

What does a negative result mean?

A negative result means this particular antibody was not found in your blood sample at the time of testing. This makes the specific antibody-related condition less likely, but it doesn't rule out other causes of balance or coordination symptoms. If your symptoms continue, further testing or monitoring may still be useful.

How often should I retest?

This is not a routine test, so retesting is typically only recommended if your symptoms change, worsen, or if it's being used to monitor response after treatment for an underlying condition. There's no standard yearly schedule for this test the way there is for general wellness panels. Use the trends feature in your account if you do retest, so you can easily compare results over time.

What should I do if my results are abnormal?

If your result comes back positive, the most important next step is prompt evaluation for an underlying cause, particularly Hodgkin's lymphoma, since this antibody is strongly linked to that condition. Keep a record of your symptoms, including when they started and how they've changed, since this information is helpful for further evaluation. Because this finding can be serious, don't wait to seek medical care if your symptoms are worsening.

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.

PCA-Tr (DNER) Antibody Test - Balance & Coordination

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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