Lab Testing

Product Description

Please note, this test is performed by LabCorp and will not require a physical test kit to complete your draw. DHA Laboratory will send you a list of local LabCorp Patient Service Centers, patient prep instructions and a requisition form via email. Please print the requisition form and bring that in with you to LabCorp to complete your draw. If you have any questions about the tests, the testing process, or need help with your lab order at any time, please feel free to contact DHA Laboratory at T: (847) 222-9546 / E: info@dhalab.com

**Note: All laboratory testing requires an authorizing physician. DHA Laboratory offers a patient direct program that partners you with an authorizing physician. If you have any additional questions regarding the availability of testing, please contact our laboratory by telephone or email.**

Sample Type: Serum

Turnaround Time: 1 Week

Performing Laboratory: LabCorp

This test measures the amount of Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor (VEGF) in your blood. VEGF is a substance that helps encourage the growth of new blood vessels. Your body makes more VEGF in certain cases. For instance, if your tissues aren’t getting enough oxygen, they may make more VEGF so that new blood vessels grow to bring in more oxygen. Your lungs contain VEGF because good blood flow is vital there.

But VEGF also plays a role in cancer growth. Cancers need an ample blood supply. As a tumor grows larger, its cells need more oxygen from the blood. The cancer encourages new blood vessels to grow to supply it. Most tumors show higher levels of VEGF. Sometimes higher levels mean a lower chance of survival. In addition, VEGF may be important in the spread of cancer to other places within your body. Certain cancer treatments target VEGF. This test may be used to tell how well the treatments are working.