What's this test for?

This test is ideal if you or someone in your care has a tumor of unknown origin and needs more information about where it started. It's a specialized tissue test, usually ordered after a biopsy, that helps pathologists figure out if a cancer likely came from the lung or thyroid. It's not a routine screening test but rather a follow-up tool used to guide diagnosis after a mass or tumor has already been found.

What's included in this test?

This test uses a single specialized stain, TTF-1, applied to a tissue sample to check for a specific protein pattern. This protein is normally found in certain lung and thyroid cells, so its presence or absence in a tumor sample gives useful clues about where a cancer may have originated. It's a targeted, single-marker test rather than a broad panel.

What happens after I get my results?

Your results will be available in your account along with an explanation of what a positive or negative TTF-1 stain means for tissue origin. Because this test is part of a larger diagnostic picture, the next step is usually discussing the finding alongside other pathology results and imaging to build a full picture of the tumor. The standard lab report can be downloaded directly from your account for your records or to share as needed. You can also track this and any related results over time using the trends feature in your account.

Who should consider this test?

This test is generally considered when a tumor or mass has been found but its tissue origin isn't clear from imaging alone. It's most relevant for people who have already had a biopsy and are working through a diagnostic workup for a suspected lung, thyroid, or other neoplasm. It is typically ordered as a follow-up test rather than a first step.

What symptoms indicate I may need this test?

There aren't specific symptoms that point directly to needing this test, since it's a tissue-based follow-up test rather than a symptom-driven screening. However, if you've had unexplained weight loss, a persistent cough, a new lump or lymph node swelling, or an unusual mass found on imaging, your care team may pursue biopsy and staining tests like this one to learn more about the tissue. It's really about clarifying a finding that's already been discovered, not catching new symptoms.

When will I get my results?

Results for this test are typically available within about 7 days. This turnaround reflects the time needed for the specialized staining and interpretation process performed by the pathology lab. You'll be notified as soon as your report is ready to view in your account.

What is TTF-1 and why does it matter?

TTF-1 stands for thyroid transcription factor-1, a protein found naturally inside certain cells in the lungs, thyroid, and part of the brain. When a tumor's cells show this protein under a special stain, it's a strong clue that the tumor came from lung or thyroid tissue rather than somewhere else. This information helps pathologists narrow down where a cancer started, which is important for choosing the right next steps.

What does a positive TTF-1 result mean?

A positive result means the tumor cells show the TTF-1 protein, which points toward the tumor most likely originating from lung or thyroid tissue. Most thyroid cancers and many lung adenocarcinomas are TTF-1 positive, so this narrows down the likely source of the tumor. This finding is typically combined with other tests to reach a fuller picture.

What does a negative TTF-1 result mean?

A negative result means the tumor cells did not show the TTF-1 protein, which makes a lung or thyroid origin less likely. Squamous cell lung cancers, mesotheliomas, and Merkel cell skin cancers are usually TTF-1 negative, so a negative result can help rule out those specific thyroid or lung cancer types. Additional stains are often used alongside this one to further pin down the tissue type.

What should I do if my results are unclear or concerning?

If your TTF-1 result raises more questions or points to a serious finding, the best next step is to review it together with any other pathology or imaging results you have, since this test is meant to be interpreted alongside your broader clinical picture. Keep a downloaded copy of your report handy for any follow-up appointments or additional testing. If you're experiencing worsening symptoms like severe pain, sudden weight loss, or difficulty breathing, seek medical care right away.

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.

TTF-1 IHC Test - Lung & Thyroid Tumor Origin

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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