What's this test for?

This test is ideal if you're following up on a thyroid nodule or a biopsy result that came back unclear. It looks for a specific genetic change linked to papillary thyroid cancer, helping clarify whether a growth in your thyroid is more likely to be cancerous. It's typically used alongside other exams, not as a stand-alone screening test for the general population.

What's included in this test?

This is a single, targeted genetic test rather than a panel, so there's one specific result: whether the RET/PTC gene rearrangement is present in your sample. This matters because certain gene fusions are found more often in papillary thyroid cancer, so identifying them can add useful information when a nodule's status is uncertain. The test looks at genetic material from thyroid tissue rather than a routine blood draw.

What happens after I get my results?

Your results will show up in your account along with an explanation of what a positive or negative finding means for this specific gene change. If the result is positive, a common next step is discussing further imaging or tissue evaluation with the location that ordered your biopsy; if negative, it may support a less invasive path forward, but continued monitoring of any nodule is still recommended. You can download a standard lab report right from your account, and if you're tracking a nodule over time, the trends feature lets you keep a record of related test results in one place.

Who should consider this test?

This test is generally considered by people who already have a thyroid nodule or a biopsy sample with ambiguous or borderline findings under a microscope. It's also relevant for those who want additional information before deciding on further procedures related to a suspicious thyroid growth. It is not typically used as a first-line or routine screening test.

When will I get my results?

Results for this test are generally ready within about 7 days of your sample being received at the lab. This turnaround can vary slightly depending on sample quality and processing volume. You'll receive a notification as soon as your results are posted to your account.

What symptoms indicate I may need this test?

You might consider this test if you've noticed a lump or swelling in your neck, changes in your voice, or difficulty swallowing that led to a thyroid nodule being found on imaging. It's more commonly used after a nodule has already been identified and biopsied, rather than based on symptoms alone. Many thyroid nodules cause no symptoms at all and are found incidentally during other exams.

What is RET/PTC rearrangement and why does it matter?

RET/PTC rearrangement is a genetic change where two genes fuse together in an abnormal way inside thyroid cells. This fusion is found in a notable share of papillary thyroid cancers, which is the most common type of thyroid cancer. Detecting it can help add clarity when a thyroid nodule's nature isn't obvious from tissue samples alone.

What does a positive result mean?

A positive result means the RET/PTC1 or RET/PTC3 gene fusion was detected in your sample, which raises the likelihood that a thyroid nodule is papillary thyroid cancer. It doesn't provide a definitive cancer diagnosis on its own — results are meant to be considered alongside the physical appearance of the tissue and other clinical findings. A positive finding is usually a signal to move forward with further evaluation of the nodule.

What does a negative result mean?

A negative result means this specific gene fusion was not detected, which can lower suspicion of papillary thyroid cancer for that sample. It doesn't fully rule out cancer, since other thyroid cancer subtypes don't carry this particular gene change. Continued monitoring of any known nodule is still a reasonable step even with a negative result.

How often should I retest?

This is not a routine test you'd repeat on a schedule — it's typically done once per biopsy sample when there's genuine uncertainty about a nodule. If a new nodule develops or an existing one changes significantly over time, retesting a fresh sample may be worth considering. Any decision to retest should be guided by changes seen on imaging or physical exam.

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.

RET/PTC Rearrangement Test - Thyroid Cancer Marker

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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