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Cytogenetics

Immunohistochemistry HHV8 Test

Detects Human Herpesvirus 8 (HHV8) in tumor tissue using immunohistochemistry. This test aids in diagnosing HHV8-associated cancers like Kaposi's sarcoma. 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. Processing is conducted daily by 6 PM. Reports are typically available within 5-7 days depending on sample complexity.
Preparation
Provide a copy of the Histopathology report, the site of the biopsy, and relevant clinical history. Confirm with the laboratory before booking.
Test priceKSh 8,000

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 HHV8 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.

  • ✓Patients with suspected Kaposi's sarcoma.
  • ✓Patients with suspected primary effusion lymphoma.
  • ✓Evaluation of unexplained skin lesions or masses.
  • ✓Patients with risk factors for HHV8 infection (e.g., immunocompromised individuals).
  • ✓Diagnosis of HHV8-associated lymphoproliferative disorders.
02

In plain language

What this test helps you understand

Aids in the diagnosis of HHV8-associated malignancies, such as Kaposi's sarcoma and primary effusion lymphoma, by detecting the virus in tissue samples.
The Immunohistochemistry HHV8 Test is a diagnostic tool used to identify the presence of Human Herpesvirus 8 (HHV8) within tumor tissue samples. HHV8 is linked to specific cancers, notably Kaposi's sarcoma and primary effusion lymphoma. This test provides valuable information for oncologists and pathologists involved in cancer diagnosis and management.

Understanding the role of HHV8 in cancer is important for planning effective treatment. This test helps healthcare providers identify HHV8 in tissue samples, differentiate between tumor types, and guide treatment decisions based on the viral presence.

The test measures the presence of HHV8 in tumor tissue using a specialized immunohistochemistry technique. By examining tissue samples, pathologists can help confirm the diagnosis of HHV8-related cancers.

This test is recommended for patients showing symptoms suggestive of cancer or those with risk factors for HHV8-related cancers, such as individuals with weakened immune systems.

Taking this test can lead to early detection of certain cancers, support informed treatment decisions, and contribute to more accurate diagnoses and better patient outcomes.

Results will indicate whether HHV8 is present in the tissue sample. Discuss your results with your doctor to understand their implications for your health and potential treatment options.
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 →
PreparationProvide a copy of the Histopathology report, the site of the biopsy, and relevant clinical history. Confirm with the laboratory before booking.
SampleTumor tissue in 10% Formal-saline or Formalin fixed paraffin embedded block.
MethodologyImmunohistochemistry (IHC) using antibodies specific to HHV8 antigens.
PrivacyYour sample and report are handled confidentially. Ask the team how your information is stored and shared.
This test detects the presence of HHV8 protein in tissue. It does not quantify the viral load or determine infectivity. Results must be interpreted in the context of clinical findings and other diagnostic 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

HHV8 stands for Human Herpesvirus 8. It is a virus associated with certain types of cancers, including Kaposi's sarcoma and primary effusion lymphoma.
This test helps doctors diagnose cancers linked to the HHV8 virus by detecting the virus in a tissue sample. This information is important for planning treatment.
A sample of tumor tissue, typically a formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded block or a formalin-fixed tissue sample, is required for this test.
Turnaround time can vary. Confirm with the laboratory before booking. Typically, results may be available within 5 to 7 days.
You will need to provide relevant clinical information, including a copy of your histopathology report and the biopsy site. Your doctor will advise you on sample collection.
A positive result indicates the presence of HHV8 in the tissue. Your doctor will interpret the results in the context of your overall health and other tests.
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.

Explore partnerships
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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