Medical information Clinical review pending

Cytogenetics

Lynch Syndrome Mismatch Repair MMR IHC MLH1 MLH2 MSH6 PMS2

This test checks for protein deficiencies linked to Lynch syndrome, a hereditary condition increasing the risk of certain cancers like colorectal cancer. It helps identify genetic predispositions for early management.

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: Biopsy sample (e.g., tumor tissue). Confirm specific requirements with the laboratory before booking.
Results: Approximately 8 days. Confirm exact turnaround time with the laboratory before booking.
Preparation: No specific patient preparation is required for this test. The sample is typically obtained during a biopsy procedure.

Test priceKSh 28,000

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 Lynch Syndrome Mismatch Repair MMR IHC MLH1 MLH2 MSH6 PMS2 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.

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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.

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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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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.

✓Personal or family history of colorectal cancer, especially diagnosed at a young age.
✓Diagnosis of other Lynch syndrome-associated cancers (e.g., endometrial, ovarian, stomach).
✓Multiple primary cancers in an individual.
✓Family history suggestive of Lynch syndrome (specific cancer types across generations).
✓To guide cancer screening and prevention strategies.
✓To inform family members about their potential risk.

In plain language

What this test helps you understand

This test helps identify individuals with Lynch syndrome, enabling early cancer detection, risk assessment for family members, and informed decisions about cancer prevention and management strategies.

The Lynch Syndrome Mismatch Repair (MMR) IHC Test is a diagnostic tool used to identify genetic changes associated with an increased risk of developing certain cancers. Lynch syndrome, also known as hereditary nonpolyposis colorectal cancer (HNPCC), is an inherited condition that significantly raises the likelihood of developing cancers, particularly colorectal cancer, but also others like endometrial, ovarian, stomach, and small intestine cancers. This test examines the presence and function of key proteins involved in DNA mismatch repair (MMR) – MLH1, MLH2, MSH6, and PMS2. These proteins are crucial for correcting errors that occur when DNA is copied. A deficiency or absence of one or more of these proteins can indicate Lynch syndrome. Early detection through this test allows individuals and their families to take proactive steps for cancer prevention and management. Understanding your MMR protein status can guide decisions about screening frequency, potential preventative surgeries, and family planning.

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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A simple process

What happens next?

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

Speak with us

We check the test and answer your questions before collection.

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.

Understand your report

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

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 for this test. The sample is typically obtained during a biopsy procedure.

SampleBiopsy sample (e.g., tumor tissue). Confirm specific requirements with the laboratory before booking.

MethodologyImmunohistochemistry (IHC) is used to detect the presence or absence of MLH1, MLH2, MSH6, and PMS2 proteins in the provided tissue sample.

PrivacyYour sample and report are handled confidentially. Ask the team how your information is stored and shared.

This test detects the absence of MMR proteins, which is often associated with Lynch syndrome, but it does not identify the specific gene mutation. Further genetic testing may be needed to pinpoint the exact mutation. Results must be interpreted in the context of the patient's personal and family history.

Read your report

What common result terms mean

TermPlain-language meaning

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.

Questions people ask

Frequently asked questions

Lynch syndrome is an inherited condition that increases the risk of developing certain cancers, most commonly colorectal cancer, but also others like endometrial, ovarian, and stomach cancer.

This test helps identify individuals with Lynch syndrome, allowing for early cancer detection, personalized screening recommendations, and risk assessment for family members.

A biopsy sample, typically tumor tissue, is required for this test. Please consult your doctor regarding sample collection.

The turnaround time is approximately 8 days. Confirm the current turnaround time with the laboratory.

Results indicate the presence or absence of key MMR proteins. Absence may suggest Lynch syndrome, requiring further discussion with your doctor and potentially more genetic testing.

Insurance coverage varies. Please check with your insurance provider regarding coverage for this specific test.

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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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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