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Cytogenetics

Immunohistochemistry Cathepsin D Test

The Immunohistochemistry Cathepsin D Test detects Cathepsin D protein in tumor tissue, aiding oncologists in assessing cancer progression and guiding treatment decisions.

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. Typical turnaround times may vary based on sample type and complexity.
Preparation
No specific patient preparation is required. Ensure the sample is correctly collected and labeled by a healthcare professional.
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 Cathepsin D 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.

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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.

  • ✓Evaluation of specific cancer types.
  • ✓Assessment of tumor aggressiveness.
  • ✓Guidance for treatment planning.
  • ✓Prognostic assessment in cancer patients.
  • ✓Patients with unexplained symptoms suggestive of cancer.
  • ✓Patients with a family history of cancer.
02

In plain language

What this test helps you understand

This test helps oncologists and pathologists evaluate tumor characteristics, assess potential aggressiveness, and guide treatment decisions for certain types of cancer.
The Immunohistochemistry Cathepsin D Test is a specialized diagnostic procedure used in oncology to detect the presence of Cathepsin D, a protein often found in higher amounts in certain cancers. This test analyzes tumor tissue to provide insights into tumor behavior, which can help doctors choose the most effective treatment strategies. It measures the expression level of the Cathepsin D protein within the tumor cells. Elevated levels are sometimes associated with more aggressive cancer types. This test is typically considered for patients with symptoms suggestive of cancer, those with a family history of cancer, or individuals already diagnosed with a tumor. The results help oncologists understand the tumor's characteristics, assess potential outcomes, and tailor treatment plans. Discussing the results with your healthcare provider is crucial for a complete 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.

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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 sample is correctly collected and labeled by a healthcare professional.
SampleTumor tissue in 10% Formal-saline or Formalin fixed paraffin embedded block.
MethodologyImmunohistochemistry (IHC) using specific antibodies to detect Cathepsin D protein in tissue sections.
PrivacyYour sample and report are handled confidentially. Ask the team how your information is stored and shared.
This test detects the presence and level of Cathepsin D protein but does not provide a definitive cancer diagnosis on its own. Results must be interpreted in the context of the patient's clinical history, other diagnostic tests, and histopathology 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

Cathepsin D is a protein (enzyme) found in cells. Its levels can be elevated in certain types of cancer and may be associated with tumor growth and spread.
This test helps doctors understand the characteristics of a tumor, potentially guiding decisions about treatment and prognosis.
A sample of the tumor tissue, typically fixed in formalin and embedded in paraffin, is required for this test.
A pathologist interprets the results, looking at the level of Cathepsin D protein expression in the tumor cells. Your doctor will discuss the meaning of the results in relation to your specific condition.
No specific preparation is needed from the patient, but the tissue sample must be collected and processed correctly.
Turnaround time can vary. Please confirm the current estimated time with the laboratory before booking.
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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