What's this test for?

This test is ideal if you're experiencing a thyroid nodule or have recently had a thyroid biopsy with unclear or borderline results. It looks for RAS gene mutations that are commonly found in certain types of thyroid tumors, helping to clarify whether a growth is more likely to be cancerous or benign. It's typically used alongside other clinical and imaging findings, not as a stand-alone diagnosis.

What's included in this test?

This test specifically looks for activating mutations in the RAS gene family, which are known to appear in a meaningful percentage of follicular and papillary thyroid cancers as well as in benign follicular adenomas. Checking for these mutations helps add molecular information to the picture built by imaging and biopsy, since RAS mutations alone don't confirm cancer but raise or lower suspicion when combined with other findings.

What happens after I get my results?

Your results will be available in your account, with an explanation of what a positive or negative finding means for RAS mutations. Because this is a specialized genetic test, next steps usually involve correlating the result with your nodule's size, imaging characteristics, and biopsy findings rather than lifestyle changes. A standard lab report is downloadable directly from your account for your records. If you test again in the future, you can track results over time using the trends feature.

How can I naturally support thyroid health?

While no natural remedy changes your genetic mutation status, supporting overall thyroid health can include eating enough iodine and selenium-rich foods like seafood, eggs, and Brazil nuts, avoiding smoking, and managing stress since it can affect thyroid hormone balance. Regular monitoring of any known nodules through imaging is also an important habit. These steps support general thyroid wellness but do not replace monitoring of a diagnosed nodule.

When will I get my results?

Results for this specialized genetic test are typically ready within about 7 days of your sample being processed at the lab. You'll receive a notification once your results are posted to your secure online account. Turnaround can occasionally vary slightly depending on sample complexity.

Who should consider this test?

This test is most relevant for people who already have a thyroid nodule identified on imaging or a biopsy sample with indeterminate results. It's often used to help further characterize a nodule before deciding on next steps like additional monitoring or surgery. It is not typically used as a general screening test for people without an identified thyroid nodule.

What symptoms indicate I may need this test?

Common reasons people pursue this test include a lump or swelling felt in the neck, difficulty swallowing, changes in voice, or a nodule found incidentally on an imaging scan like an ultrasound or CT. Many thyroid nodules don't cause noticeable symptoms and are found during routine exams, so a known nodule is usually the trigger for this specific molecular test rather than symptoms alone.

What is a RAS mutation and why does it matter?

RAS genes normally help control how cells grow and divide. When a RAS gene develops an activating mutation, cells can start growing in an unregulated way, which is one of the changes seen in some thyroid cancers as well as in some benign thyroid growths. Finding this mutation doesn't confirm cancer by itself, but it adds useful information when interpreted alongside a nodule's imaging and biopsy characteristics.

What does a positive RAS mutation result mean?

A positive result means the RAS mutation was detected in the tested tissue sample, which is seen in up to 40% of follicular thyroid carcinomas, up to 10% of papillary thyroid carcinomas, and also in some benign follicular adenomas. This finding raises the level of suspicion for a growth needing closer monitoring or further evaluation, but it does not by itself confirm cancer. The result needs to be considered together with imaging and biopsy findings.

What should I do if my results show a RAS mutation?

If your result is positive, the next step is usually to have this finding correlated with your nodule's imaging appearance and any biopsy results, since a RAS mutation alone doesn't confirm or rule out cancer. Keep a copy of your downloadable lab report so it can be referenced alongside your other thyroid records. If you have concerning symptoms like a rapidly growing lump, voice changes, or difficulty breathing or swallowing, seek medical care promptly.

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.

RAS Mutation Test - Thyroid Nodule Cancer Risk

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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