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Medical information Clinical review pending

Cytogenetics

Immunohistochemistry BRAF V600E Test

The Immunohistochemistry BRAF V600E Test helps identify a specific genetic mutation in tumor tissue, guiding cancer treatment decisions, particularly for melanoma. Confirm with the laboratory before booking.

General information only: This page is not a diagnosis or personal medical advice. A qualified clinician should decide whether testing is appropriate and interpret results in context.

Review status: No completed medical review is recorded for this page.

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Counselor guidance included Confidential handling Kenya-wide coordination

At a glance

Plan your test

Sample
Tumor tissue sample, preferably in 10% Formal-saline or Formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded block.
Results
5 to 7 days. Confirm with the laboratory before booking.
Preparation
No specific patient preparation is required. Ensure the submitted tissue is correctly labeled with patient information and clinical history. A copy of the Histopathology report and site of biopsy should accompany the sample.
Test priceKSh 7,000

Payment: M-Pesa and card options can be confirmed during booking.

Insurance & government schemes

Is this test covered for you?

We help you verify whether the Immunohistochemistry BRAF V600E Test test can be claimed against your insurer, employer scheme or a Kenyan government health scheme — before you book. Coverage depends on your plan, clinical indication and your provider's rules; final approval always rests with them.

Talk to a claims advisor

Providers & schemes we can help you check

Government & public schemes

SHIF — Social Health Insurance Fund Linda Mama EduAfya NHIF (legacy cards)

Eligibility and benefits follow the current rules of the Social Health Authority (SHA) and applicable government programmes.

Private insurers & employer schemes

Jubilee Health AAR APA Britam CIC Madison Resolution Pioneer Minet Old Mutual GA Life Heritage + other licensed insurers

Names shown for identification only — listing does not imply partnership or guarantee of coverage.

Have these ready when we check

  • Insurer or scheme name & policy / member number
  • A clinician's request / prescription for the test
  • Pre-authorisation letter, if your plan requires one

Free coverage check

Ask us to verify your cover

Send your details and our claims team confirms what documents you need and whether pre-authorisation applies — usually the same working day.

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Used only to process your coverage check — see our Privacy Policy. Verification support is free and does not guarantee your provider will pay.

01

Start with fit

Is this the right test for you?

The best test starts with a clear clinical question. These are common reasons a clinician or family may consider this test.

  • ✓Diagnosis of melanoma
  • ✓Diagnosis of other cancers where BRAF mutation is relevant
  • ✓Guiding targeted therapy selection
  • ✓Prognosis assessment in specific cancers
  • ✓Patients with suspicious skin lesions
  • ✓Patients with a family history of melanoma
02

In plain language

What this test helps you understand

Identifies the BRAF V600E mutation in tumor tissue to guide personalized cancer treatment strategies, particularly for melanoma.
The Immunohistochemistry BRAF V600E Test is a diagnostic procedure used in oncology to identify specific genetic mutations associated with various types of cancer. This test plays a crucial role in guiding treatment decisions, particularly for patients with melanoma and other malignancies. Understanding the presence of the BRAF V600E mutation can significantly impact the management and prognosis of cancer patients.

This test specifically detects the BRAF V600E mutation in tumor tissue samples. The presence of this mutation indicates a higher likelihood of certain cancer types, particularly melanoma, and can influence the choice of targeted therapies available to patients.

Patients who may benefit from this test include those diagnosed with melanoma or other cancers where BRAF mutation testing is indicated, individuals experiencing symptoms related to these cancers, or those with a family history of melanoma or related cancers.

Benefits of this test include accurate detection of BRAF mutations, leading to more personalized treatment plans, assistance in determining prognosis and potential response to targeted therapies, and facilitating clinical decision-making for oncologists.

Results are typically available within 5 to 7 days. A positive result indicates the presence of the BRAF V600E mutation, suggesting eligibility for targeted therapies. A negative result means the mutation is not present, guiding oncologists towards alternative treatment options. It is essential to discuss your results with your healthcare provider for a comprehensive understanding.
03

Medical review status

Clinical review pending

A completed medical review is not recorded for this page. No clinician has endorsed the information shown here. Please discuss testing decisions with a qualified healthcare professional.

Meet the DNA Labs Kenya medical team →
04

A simple process

What happens next?

You do not have to navigate the test alone. We help you move from question to next step.

1

Speak with us

We check the test and answer your questions before collection.

2

Give your sample

Choose home collection or a coordinated hub visit in Kenya. We explain whether this test uses a cheek swab or blood draw.

3

Understand your report

A counselor helps you understand the result and the next steps.

05

Choose your collection

Home collection or a lab visit

We will explain the sample, preparation, and next steps before anything is collected.

Home collection

Choose a coordinated visit at home or another convenient location. Our team confirms the appointment and sample requirements in advance.

Lab or hub visit

Prefer to visit a coordinated location? We can guide you to the right hub and explain what to expect when you arrive.

Ask about locations →
PreparationNo specific patient preparation is required. Ensure the submitted tissue is correctly labeled with patient information and clinical history. A copy of the Histopathology report and site of biopsy should accompany the sample.
SampleTumor tissue sample, preferably in 10% Formal-saline or Formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded block.
MethodologyImmunohistochemistry (IHC) on tumor tissue.
PrivacyYour sample and report are handled confidentially. Ask the team how your information is stored and shared.
This test detects only the specific BRAF V600E mutation. Other BRAF mutations or different genetic alterations may be present. Results must be interpreted in the context of the patient's clinical picture and other diagnostic findings. Confirm with the laboratory before booking.
06

Read your report

What common result terms mean

PositiveA finding was identified. Your clinician or counselor will explain what it means for your care.
NegativeThe specific finding tested for was not identified. It does not rule out every possible cause.
VUSA variant was found, but current evidence is not enough to classify it. Your counselor can explain follow-up.
07

Questions people ask

Frequently asked questions

BRAF V600E is a specific genetic change (mutation) found in some types of cancer cells, particularly melanoma. It affects a protein involved in cell growth.
Identifying the BRAF V600E mutation helps doctors choose the most effective treatments, including targeted therapies that specifically attack cancer cells with this mutation.
A sample of the tumor tissue is required for this test. This can be formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded tissue or a tissue block.
Results are typically available within 5 to 7 days. Confirm with the laboratory before booking.
A positive result means the BRAF V600E mutation was detected in the tumor tissue. This information helps guide treatment decisions.
Yes, home sample collection services may be available. Please contact the laboratory to confirm availability in your area.
08

Collaboration

Open for partnership with hospitals, clinics, doctors & researchers

Whether you are referring patients, building a research programme or supporting students, we work as an extension of your team — with responsive communication and clear scientific standards.

Hospitals & clinics

Referral pathways, coordinated sample logistics and shared reporting that fits your clinical workflow.

Doctors & specialists

LOINC-coded reports, ACMG-based variant classification and a direct scientific line for complex cases.

Research institutions

Sanger sequencing, NGS panels and custom assays — with project design support, batch pricing and agreed turnaround commitments.

Students & academic projects

Discounted laboratory services for college, master's and PhD research projects — including proposal guidance and cost-effective batch testing.

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09

Trust & transparency

Sources, standards & how this page is maintained

Standards & references

  • ACMG/AMP technical standards for sequence variant interpretation
  • ClinGen curation and gene–disease validity frameworks where applicable
  • LOINC-coded reporting for interoperable results
  • ISO 9001:2015 quality management; ISO 15189 accreditation in progress

Page provenance

  • Last updated: September 27, 2026
  • Medical review: not yet completed
  • Written for patients & clinicians in Kenya; reviewed periodically against current guidance

Medical disclaimer: this page is general information, not a diagnosis or personal medical advice. Testing decisions and result interpretation should be made with a qualified healthcare professional.

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