What's this test for?

This test is ideal if you're experiencing sudden memory problems, confusion, seizures, or unusual behavioral changes that came on over weeks rather than years. These symptoms can sometimes be linked to a rare condition called limbic encephalitis, which affects the brain and can be connected to certain cancers. This test looks for specific antibodies that are often present when this condition is happening.

What happens after I get my results?

Your results will show up in your account along with an explanation of what a normal versus abnormal antibody level looks like. If your levels come back elevated, the report will walk you through what that means and why prompt follow-up care is important, since this condition can progress quickly if untreated. You can download a standard lab report from your account at any time, and if you retest later, the trends feature lets you track how your antibody levels change over time. Because this is a serious neurological marker, any high result should prompt you to seek medical care right away.

Who should consider this test?

This test is a good fit for people who have had unexplained, fast-developing memory loss, seizures, or personality changes, especially alongside a current or past cancer diagnosis. It's also useful for those already being evaluated for small cell lung cancer or testicular, breast, or other tumors, since this antibody is sometimes linked to those cancers. Family members supporting someone with sudden cognitive decline may also find this test relevant to bring clarity to a confusing situation.

What symptoms indicate I may need this test?

Key symptoms include rapid short-term memory loss, new-onset seizures, sudden confusion, and noticeable changes in mood or behavior that happen over days to weeks. Some people also experience sleep disturbances or hallucinations alongside these changes. If these symptoms appear suddenly and don't have an obvious cause like an infection or injury, it's worth looking into this test.

When will I get my results?

Results are typically ready within about 7 days of your blood draw. Because this test looks at a specialized antibody, it takes a bit longer to process than routine bloodwork. You'll be notified as soon as your results are available in your account.

What is limbic encephalitis and why does it matter?

Limbic encephalitis is a rare condition where the immune system mistakenly attacks part of the brain that controls memory and emotions, sometimes triggered by an underlying tumor. It matters because catching it early can make a big difference in how well someone responds to treatment. Since the brain inflammation can worsen quickly, recognizing the pattern of symptoms early and testing for markers like this antibody helps guide next steps sooner rather than later.

What does a high VGKC antibody result mean?

A high result means your immune system may be producing antibodies that are attacking potassium channels in your brain and nerves, which is associated with limbic encephalitis in some people. This doesn't automatically mean you have the condition, but combined with symptoms like memory loss or seizures, it's a strong signal that further evaluation is needed quickly. Because this can sometimes be linked to an underlying tumor, a high result is often followed by cancer screening as well.

What causes elevated VGKC antibodies?

Elevated levels are usually caused by an autoimmune reaction, where the body's immune system incorrectly targets healthy nerve tissue. In some cases, this reaction is triggered by a hidden tumor, most often small cell lung cancer, though testicular and breast tumors have also been linked. In other cases, no underlying cancer is found and the reaction happens on its own.

How often should I retest?

If you're being monitored after a diagnosis or treatment, retesting every few months can help track whether antibody levels are dropping in response to treatment. Studies have shown that neurological symptoms tend to improve as VGKC antibody levels decrease, so retesting gives a useful picture of progress. If your first result was normal but symptoms persist or worsen, retesting sooner is a reasonable next step.

What should I do if my results are abnormal?

If your result comes back high, don't wait — seek medical care promptly, especially if you're having active seizures, worsening confusion, or other severe neurological symptoms. Bring your lab report with you so it can be reviewed alongside your symptoms and any imaging or other testing you may need. Early action gives the best chance of managing the underlying cause effectively.

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.

VGKC Antibody Test - Limbic Encephalitis Screening

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

[email protected]