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Medical information Clinical review pending

Diagnostic Testing

Immunohistochemistry PLA2R Test

The Immunohistochemistry PLA2R Test helps diagnose specific kidney disorders by detecting PLA2R antibodies in kidney tissue samples. This test aids in understanding the cause of kidney damage and guiding treatment.

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
Tissue samples in 10% Formal-saline or Formalin-fixed paraffin embedded blocks.
Results
Report Block: 5 days; Tissue Biopsy: 5 days; Tissue Large Complex: 7 days. Confirm with the laboratory before booking.
Preparation
No specific patient preparation is required for this test, as it uses tissue samples.
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 PLA2R 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.

  • ✓Swelling in legs, ankles, or feet
  • ✓Foamy urine
  • ✓High blood pressure
  • ✓Unexplained weight gain
  • ✓Suspected Membranous Nephropathy
  • ✓Family history of kidney disease
  • ✓Autoimmune disorder risk factors
02

In plain language

What this test helps you understand

This test is used to aid in the diagnosis of specific kidney diseases, particularly Membranous Nephropathy, by detecting the presence of PLA2R antibodies in kidney tissue.
The Immunohistochemistry PLA2R Test is a specialized diagnostic tool used to detect the presence of Phospholipase A2 Receptor (PLA2R) antibodies in kidney tissue samples. This test is particularly important in the diagnosis and management of kidney disorders, especially Membranous Nephropathy. By identifying these antibodies, healthcare professionals can better understand the underlying causes of kidney damage and tailor appropriate treatment plans for patients.

This test specifically measures the presence of PLA2R antibodies in the tissue samples submitted. The detection of these antibodies can indicate an autoimmune response that may lead to kidney damage and is crucial for diagnosing specific kidney disorders.

Patients experiencing symptoms such as swelling in the legs, ankles, or feet, foamy urine, high blood pressure, or unexplained weight gain due to fluid retention should discuss this test with their doctor. Individuals with risk factors like a family history of kidney disease or autoimmune disorders may also benefit from this test. Nephrologists and pathologists often recommend it for a comprehensive evaluation of kidney health.

Benefits of this test include early detection of kidney disorders, guidance for effective treatment options, monitoring disease progression, and personalized patient management based on test results. Your healthcare provider will interpret the results in the context of your symptoms and medical history.
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 for this test, as it uses tissue samples.
SampleTissue samples in 10% Formal-saline or Formalin-fixed paraffin embedded blocks.
MethodologyImmunohistochemistry (IHC) is used to detect the presence of PLA2R antibodies within the kidney tissue sample.
PrivacyYour sample and report are handled confidentially. Ask the team how your information is stored and shared.
This test requires a kidney tissue biopsy sample. Results must be interpreted by a qualified healthcare professional in conjunction with 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

This test detects PLA2R antibodies in kidney tissue samples to help diagnose specific kidney disorders like Membranous Nephropathy.
Patients with symptoms like swelling, foamy urine, high blood pressure, or unexplained weight gain, or those with risk factors for kidney disease, should discuss this test with their doctor.
A kidney tissue sample, typically obtained through a biopsy, is required. It should be submitted in 10% Formal-saline or as a Formalin-fixed paraffin embedded block.
Turnaround time varies depending on the sample type, typically ranging from 5 to 7 days. Confirm with the laboratory before booking.
A positive result indicates the presence of PLA2R antibodies in the kidney tissue, which can help confirm a diagnosis like Membranous Nephropathy. Your doctor will interpret this in context.
Please contact the laboratory directly for current pricing information.
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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