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Medical information Clinical review pending

Cytogenetics

Immunohistochemistry Calretinin Test

The Immunohistochemistry Calretinin Test detects calretinin protein expression in tumor tissues, aiding in the diagnosis and classification of certain cancers, particularly mesothelioma. 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 in 10% Formal-saline or Formalin-fixed paraffin embedded block.
Results
Confirm with the laboratory before booking.
Preparation
Ensure the sample is shipped at room temperature. Provide a copy of the Histopathology report, site of biopsy, and relevant clinical history.
Test priceKSh 6,000

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 Calretinin 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 mesothelioma
  • ✓Differentiation of tumor types
  • ✓Evaluation of tumors of uncertain origin
  • ✓Assessment of specific cancer subtypes
  • ✓Guiding treatment decisions
02

In plain language

What this test helps you understand

Aids in the diagnosis and classification of certain cancers, particularly mesothelioma, by detecting calretinin protein expression in tumor tissues.
The Immunohistochemistry Calretinin Test is a specialized diagnostic procedure used in oncology to detect the presence of calretinin, a protein found in certain types of cells. This test is particularly useful in identifying specific tumor types, such as mesothelioma and other cancers. Understanding calretinin expression helps healthcare providers make informed decisions about diagnosis and treatment.

This test measures the levels of calretinin in tumor tissue samples. By analyzing this protein's expression, doctors can gain valuable insights into the nature and potential behavior of a tumor, which is crucial for accurate diagnosis and effective treatment planning.

This test is typically considered for patients with symptoms suggestive of tumors, individuals with a history of asbestos exposure, or those already diagnosed with cancer requiring further tumor characterization.

Taking this test can lead to a more accurate diagnosis of tumor types, helping to select the most appropriate treatment. It assists in differentiating between various types of tumors, which can significantly influence prognosis and management strategies. The results provide critical information for oncologists to manage patient care effectively.

Results indicate whether calretinin is expressed in the tumor tissue. A positive result may suggest certain tumor types, while a negative result can help rule them out. Discuss your results with your healthcare provider for a complete understanding and to determine the next steps in your care.
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 →
PreparationEnsure the sample is shipped at room temperature. Provide a copy of the Histopathology report, site of biopsy, and relevant clinical history.
SampleTumor tissue in 10% Formal-saline or Formalin-fixed paraffin embedded block.
MethodologyImmunohistochemistry (IHC) using antibodies specific to calretinin.
PrivacyYour sample and report are handled confidentially. Ask the team how your information is stored and shared.
This test detects the presence or absence of calretinin protein. Results must be interpreted in the context of clinical findings, imaging, and other laboratory tests. 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

Calretinin is a protein found in certain types of cells. Its presence or absence in tumor tissue can help identify specific types of cancer.
This test helps doctors accurately diagnose and classify certain cancers, especially mesothelioma, leading to better treatment decisions.
A tissue sample from the tumor, typically formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded tissue or a formalin-fixed tissue block, is required.
Turnaround time varies. Please confirm the current estimated turnaround time with the laboratory before booking.
Results indicate if calretinin is present in the tumor tissue. Your doctor will interpret these results alongside other clinical information.
Insurance coverage varies. Please check with your insurance provider regarding coverage for this specific test.
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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