What's this test for?

This test is ideal if you or a specialist reviewing a biopsy needs to figure out what type of cells are present in a tissue sample. It's often used when there's a suspicious growth or tumor and more information is needed about whether it involves nerve or hormone-producing cells. This test helps clarify a diagnosis that a standard tissue exam alone can't fully answer.

What's included in this test?

This test uses a specialized staining technique (immunohistochemistry, or IHC) to check tissue for a specific protein called synaptophysin. This protein is found in nerve cells and hormone-producing cells, so detecting it helps identify whether a tumor or growth originated from these cell types. Pinpointing the cell origin matters because it guides how a growth is classified and understood.

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 the tissue sample tested. Since this is a specialized tissue marker test, next steps typically involve using this information alongside other pathology findings rather than a simple retest schedule. The standard lab report can be downloaded directly from your account for your records, and you can track any repeat or related testing over time using the trends feature. If your results suggest something requiring urgent attention, seek medical care promptly.

Who should consider this test?

This test is generally considered when a tissue sample from a biopsy needs further characterization beyond a routine exam. It's commonly used for growths suspected to involve nerve tissue, hormone-producing glands, or certain rare tumor types. If a biopsy result came back unclear or a specialist recommended additional tissue marker testing, this is the type of test that provides that extra layer of detail.

When will I get my results?

Results are typically ready within about 7 days of your sample being processed at the lab. Because this test involves specialized tissue staining and expert interpretation, it takes a bit longer than routine blood work. You'll be notified as soon as your report is available in your account.

What symptoms indicate I may need this test?

This test isn't chosen based on everyday symptoms like fatigue or headaches — it's used after a biopsy has already been taken from a suspicious lump, mass, or growth. Signs that led to that biopsy might include an unexplained lump, unusual growth found on imaging, or symptoms related to hormone overproduction. The test itself is a follow-up step to better classify the cells already collected.

What is synaptophysin and why does it matter?

Synaptophysin is a protein found in the tiny structures nerve cells and hormone-producing cells use to send signals. When pathology teams see this protein present in a tissue sample, it's a strong clue that the cells being examined come from nervous system or hormone-related tissue. This matters because it helps correctly classify tumors, such as neuroendocrine tumors, so the growth is better understood.

What does a positive synaptophysin result mean?

A positive result means the protein was detected in the tissue sample, suggesting the cells have nerve or hormone-producing characteristics. This is commonly seen in neuroendocrine tumors and certain other specific cell types. Your downloadable report will explain the finding in the context of the specific tissue sample tested.

What does a negative synaptophysin result mean?

A negative result means the protein wasn't found in the tissue sample, making it less likely that the cells have a neuroendocrine origin. This helps narrow down what type of cells are present by ruling out certain possibilities. Additional markers are often used alongside this one to build a fuller picture.

What should I do if my results are abnormal?

If your report shows a positive or unexpected finding, review the explanation provided with your results to understand what it means for the specific tissue sample tested. This test is typically one piece of a larger diagnostic picture, so results are most useful when considered alongside other pathology findings. If you have concerns about next steps, seeking timely medical care is a good idea given the nature of tissue biopsy findings.

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.

Synaptophysin IHC Test - Tumor Cell Identification

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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