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Laboratory Screening

Lab Tests

A blood type test, also known as ABO/Rh typing, is a simple blood test used to determine your blood type.

What Does a Blood Type Test Do?

The blood type test identifies two main components of your blood that determine compatibility for blood transfusions:

Cancer and Disease Markers:

This system identifies two antigens (A and B) and their corresponding antibodies (anti-A and anti-B) present on red blood cells or in the plasma. Based on the presence or absence of these antigens, the test categorizes your blood type as A, B, AB, or O.

Rh factor:

The test also determines whether you are Rh positive (Rh+) or Rh negative (Rh-), indicating the presence or absence of the Rh factor, another antigen on red blood cells.

A liver panel, also known as a hepatic panel or liver function test (LFT), is a group of blood tests that assess the health and function of your liver. It provides valuable insights into various aspects of liver health.

Alanine aminotransferase (ALT/SGPT); albumin, serum; alkaline phosphatase, serum; aspartate aminotransferase (AST/SGOT); bilirubin, direct; bilirubin, total; protein, total, serum

An ALT blood test, also known as an alanine aminotransferase test, is a simple blood test used to assess the health of your liver. The liver is a vital organ responsible for many essential functions in the body, including:

Filtering toxins from your blood

Producing proteins important for digestion and other bodily functions

Regulating blood sugar levels

Storing vitamins and minerals

An AST blood test, also known as the aspartate aminotransferase test, is a common blood test used to evaluate your liver health. The liver plays a critical role in your body, performing tasks like:

Filtering toxins from your blood

Producing proteins essential for various functions

Regulating blood sugar levels

Storing vitamins and minerals

A typical renal panel may include the following tests:

Blood Urea Nitrogen (BUN):

Measures waste product levels in the blood after protein breakdown. High BUN can indicate kidney dysfunction.

Serum Creatinine:

Waste product from muscle breakdown removed by the kidneys. Elevated levels can suggest reduced kidney function.

Glomerular Filtration Rate (GFR):

Estimated measurement of your kidneys' filtering ability based on creatinine levels. A low GFR indicates potential kidney disease.

Electrolytes

Measures sodium, potassium, calcium, and other minerals crucial for various bodily functions. Abnormal levels can be a sign of kidney problems or other imbalances.

Albumin, serum; BUN; BUN:

creatinine ratio; calcium, serum; carbon dioxide, total; chloride, serum; creatinine, serum; glucose, serum; phosphorus, serum; potassium, serum; sodium, serum

The Rh factor blood test is a simple blood test that determines whether you are Rh-positive or Rh-negative. This test is crucial during pregnancy, but can also be important for blood transfusions.

What is the Rh Factor?

The Rh factor is a protein found on the surface of red blood cells. People who have this protein are Rh-positive, and those who lack it are Rh-negative. Most people, around 85% in the United States, are Rh-positive.

Insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1), also sometimes called somatomedin C, is a hormone produced primarily by the liver. It plays a crucial role in various bodily functions throughout your life, including:

Growth and development:

IGF-1 is essential for childhood growth, promoting bone and muscle development.

Cellular metabolism:

It influences how cells throughout the body utilize energy and nutrients.

Tissue repair and regeneration:

IGF-1 plays a role in tissue repair and regeneration after injury.

A Complete Blood Count (CBC) with differential and platelets is a comprehensive blood test that provides a detailed analysis of your blood cells. This vital test offers valuable insights into your overall health and can help diagnose various conditions.

What Does a CBC with Differential and Platelets Include?

Red Blood Cells (RBCs): These cells carry oxygen throughout your body. The CBC measures:

RBC count:

The number of red blood cells per volume of blood.

Hemoglobin (Hgb):

The protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen.

Hematocrit (Hct):

The percentage of your blood volume that is red blood cells.

Mean Corpuscular Volume (MCV):

The average size of your red blood cells.

Mean Corpuscular Hemoglobin (MCH):

The average amount of hemoglobin in each red blood cell.

Mean Corpuscular Hemoglobin Concentration (MCHC):

The concentration of hemoglobin within your red blood cells.

Red blood cell distribution width (RDW):

A measure of the variation in the size of your red blood cells.

White Blood Cells (WBCs): These cells are part of your immune system and help fight infection.

Neutrophils

Lymphocytes

Monocytes

Eosinophils

Basophils

Platelets: These are cell fragments in your blood that help with clotting to stop bleeding. The CBC measures your platelet count.

A metabolic panel, also known as a comprehensive metabolic profile (CMP), is a group of blood tests that offer a comprehensive snapshot of your body's chemical balance and metabolic function.

What Tests Does a Metabolic Panel Include?

A typical metabolic panel may include the following tests:

Electrolytes

These minerals, including sodium, potassium, chloride, and bicarbonate, play a vital role in maintaining proper fluid balance, nerve function, and muscle function. Abnormal electrolyte levels can indicate dehydration, electrolyte imbalances, or kidney problems.

Glucose:

This is the main sugar your body uses for energy. A high blood sugar level can be a sign of prediabetes or diabetes.

Blood Urea Nitrogen (BUN) and Creatinine:

These are waste products created by the breakdown of protein in your body. The kidneys normally filter these products from your blood. Elevated BUN or creatinine levels can suggest kidney dysfunction.

Liver Enzymes:

These enzymes are produced by the liver. Abnormal levels can indicate liver damage or disease. The panel may include tests for enzymes like ALT, AST, and ALP.

Protein:

This measures the total amount of protein in your blood, including albumin and globulins. Abnormal protein levels can suggest liver or kidney problems, malnutrition, or inflammation.

Calcium:

This mineral is crucial for strong bones and teeth, muscle function, and nerve signaling. Abnormal calcium levels can be associated with parathyroid gland problems or bone disorders.

Your cholesterol panel, also known as a lipid panel or lipid profile, is a group of blood tests that measure different types of cholesterol and fats in your blood. This information is essential for assessing your risk of developing cardiovascular disease (CVD), which includes heart disease and stroke.

Total Cholesterol:

This is the sum of all your cholesterol, including LDL ("bad") cholesterol, HDL ("good") cholesterol, and other types of cholesterol.

LDL Cholesterol (Low-Density Lipoprotein):

Often referred to as "bad" cholesterol, LDL cholesterol transports cholesterol to your arteries. High LDL levels can lead to plaque buildup in your arteries, increasing your risk of heart attack and stroke.

HDL Cholesterol (High-Density Lipoprotein):

HDL cholesterol is known as "good" cholesterol because it helps remove LDL cholesterol from your arteries and carries it back to your liver for disposal. Higher HDL levels are beneficial for heart health.

Triglycerides:

A type of fat stored in your body. Elevated triglycerides can contribute to artery blockage and increase your risk of CVD.

Total Cholesterol:

This is the sum of all your cholesterol, including LDL ("bad") cholesterol, HDL ("good") cholesterol, and other types of cholesterol.

LDL Cholesterol (Low-Density Lipoprotein):

Often referred to as "bad" cholesterol, LDL cholesterol transports cholesterol to your arteries. High LDL levels can lead to plaque buildup in your arteries, increasing your risk of heart attack and stroke.

HDL Cholesterol (High-Density Lipoprotein):

HDL cholesterol is known as "good" cholesterol because it helps remove LDL cholesterol from your arteries and carries it back to your liver for disposal. Higher HDL levels are beneficial for heart health.

Triglycerides:

A type of fat stored in your body. Elevated triglycerides can contribute to artery blockage and increase your risk of CVD.

C-reactive protein (CRP) is a protein produced by your liver in response to inflammation in your body. While inflammation is a normal immune system response to injury or infection, high CRP levels can indicate a more serious underlying condition.

Dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate (DHEA-S), also known as androstenolone sulfate, is a hormone produced mainly by the adrenal glands, located above your kidneys. DHEA-S is a circulating form of dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA), another hormone. While DHEA-S itself isn't directly active, it acts as a precursor hormone that can be converted into other hormones, including testosterone in men and estrogen in women.

An electrolyte panel is a blood test that measures the levels of electrolytes and carbon dioxide in your blood. Electrolytes are minerals that help your body function properly, including maintaining fluid balance, regulating muscle and nerve function, and supporting normal heart rhythm.

What Electrolytes Does the Panel Measure?

Sodium (Na):

Plays a crucial role in fluid balance and blood pressure regulation.

Potassium (K):

Essential for proper muscle and nerve function, including maintaining a regular heartbeat.

Chloride (Cl):

Helps maintain fluid balance and blood pressure, and also plays a role in digestion.

Carbon dioxide (CO2):

Measured as bicarbonate (HCO3) in the blood, CO2 helps regulate blood pH levels.

Estradiol, also spelled oestradiol, is the major female sex hormone. It's produced primarily by the ovaries in women of reproductive age, but small amounts are also produced by the adrenal glands and fat tissue in both men and women. Estradiol plays a crucial role in many bodily functions, particularly those related to the female reproductive system.

Functions of Estradiol:

Regulating the menstrual cycle:

Estradiol stimulates the development of the uterine lining (endometrium) in preparation for pregnancy each month.

Promoting development of female sexual characteristics:

Estradiol is responsible for the growth and development of breasts, pubic hair, and regulation of fat distribution according to a female pattern.

Maintaining bone health:

Estradiol helps maintain bone mineral density and prevent osteoporosis.

Supporting cardiovascular health:

Estradiol may have some protective effects on the heart and blood vessels.

Influencing mood and cognitive function:

Estradiol fluctuations can be linked to mood changes and may play a role in cognitive function.

This blood test measures the combined level of all circulating estrogens in your body. Estradiol (E2), the primary female sex hormone, is the most significant component, but other estrogens like estrone (E1) and estriol (E3) are also included. This test provides a general overview of estrogen activity.

Ferritin is a protein found inside your cells that stores iron. A ferritin blood test measures the level of ferritin in your blood, which provides an indirect measure of your body's iron stores. Iron is a mineral essential for many bodily functions, including:

Oxygen transport in red blood cells

Muscle function

Energy production

Cell growth

Why Get a Ferritin Test?

There are two main reasons why your doctor might recommend a ferritin test:

To diagnose iron deficiency or iron overload:

  • - Iron deficiency is a common condition, especially among women with heavy menstrual bleeding, pregnant women, and vegetarians or vegans. Symptoms can include fatigue, weakness, shortness of breath, and pale skin.
  • - Iron overload, a less common condition, can occur due to excessive iron intake or certain medical conditions. It can damage organs like the liver and heart.

To monitor treatment for iron deficiency or overload: The ferritin test can help track the effectiveness of treatment, such as iron supplements or bloodletting procedures.

This test is a blood test that measures the amount of folate in your bloodstream. Folate, also known as vitamin B9, is a crucial nutrient for many bodily functions, particularly:

DNA synthesis and cell division:

Folate is essential for creating new cells and repairing DNA damage.

Red blood cell production:

Folate plays a vital role in the formation of healthy red blood cells.

Amino acid metabolism:

Folate is involved in converting amino acids, the building blocks of proteins, into usable forms for the body.

The FSH test, also known as the Follicle-Stimulating Hormone test, measures the level of follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) in your bloodstream. FSH is a hormone produced by the pituitary gland that plays a key role in reproduction for both men and women.

What is FSH?

In women:

FSH stimulates the growth and development of follicles in the ovaries. Each follicle contains an egg. The follicle also produces estrogen, another vital hormone for reproduction.

In men:

FSH helps stimulate sperm production in the testicles.

The LH test, also known as the Luteinizing Hormone test, measures the level of luteinizing hormone (LH) in your bloodstream. LH is a hormone produced by the pituitary gland that plays a crucial role in reproduction for both men and women. What is LH?

In women:

LH triggers ovulation, the release of a mature egg from the ovary. The LH surge typically occurs mid-cycle, around day 14 of a regular 28-day cycle.

In men:

LH stimulates the production of testosterone by the Leydig cells in the testicles. Testosterone is essential for sperm production and male sexual function.

A pregnenolone test measures the level of pregnenolone in your blood. Pregnenolone is a steroid hormone produced by the adrenal glands and acts as a precursor for many other vital hormones, including:

Progesterone

Estrogen

DHEA (dehydroepiandrosterone)

Testosterone

A phosphorus test, also called a phosphate test, measures the amount of phosphate (a form of phosphorus) in your blood. Phosphorus is a mineral essential for many bodily functions, including:

Building and maintaining strong bones and teeth:

Phosphorus is a major component of bones and teeth, making it crucial for their strength and development.

Energy production:

Phosphorus plays a vital role in cellular energy production processes.

Muscle function:

Phosphorus is necessary for proper muscle function and nerve signaling.

Maintaining a healthy acid-base balance:

Phosphorus helps regulate the body's pH levels.

A magnesium test, also known as a magnesium blood test, measures the level of magnesium in your blood. Magnesium is a mineral that plays a crucial role in various bodily functions, including:

Maintaining healthy bones and teeth:

Magnesium works alongside calcium to promote bone strength and development.

Regulating muscle and nerve function:

Magnesium is essential for proper muscle function and nerve transmission.

Supporting energy production:

Magnesium is involved in cellular energy production processes.

Aiding in blood sugar control:

Magnesium helps regulate blood sugar levels and may improve insulin sensitivity.

Progesterone is a hormone produced mainly by the ovaries in women and in smaller amounts by the adrenal glands and testes in both men and women. It plays a vital role in reproduction and other bodily functions.

A prolactin test measures the level of prolactin, a hormone produced by the pituitary gland, in your bloodstream. Prolactin plays a crucial role in several bodily functions, particularly:

Milk production in women:

Prolactin stimulates milk production after childbirth.

Breast development in women:

Prolactin interacts with other hormones during puberty to promote breast development.

Regulation of reproductive hormones:

Prolactin levels can influence the production of sex hormones like estrogen and testosterone.

The Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA) test is a blood test used to screen for prostate cancer in men. The PSA test measures the level of prostate-specific antigen, a protein produced by the prostate gland.

Both Prothrombin Time (PT) and Partial Thromboplastin Time (PTT) are blood tests used to evaluate your blood's clotting ability. While they may sound similar, they assess different parts of the clotting cascade, a complex series of steps involving various proteins (clotting factors) that work together to form a clot and stop bleeding.

SHBG, standing for Sex Hormone Binding Globulin, is a protein produced mainly by your liver. It plays a crucial role in regulating the activity of sex hormones, including testosterone in both men and women, and estrogen in women. SHBG binds to these hormones, making them less available to circulate freely and exert their effects on your tissues.

An insulin test measures the amount of insulin circulating in your bloodstream. Insulin is a hormone produced by your pancreas that plays a critical role in regulating blood sugar (glucose) levels.

Why Get an Insulin Test?

Doctors primarily use insulin tests to diagnose and monitor conditions related to abnormal blood sugar levels:

Diagnosing Diabetes:

  • Type 1 Diabetes: The body produces little to no insulin.
  • Type 2 Diabetes: The body either doesn't produce enough insulin or can't use insulin effectively (insulin resistance).

Monitoring Diabetes Management:

The test helps assess how well diabetes treatment is controlling blood sugar levels.

Investigating Hypoglycemia (Low Blood Sugar):

Excessive insulin production or certain medications can cause hypoglycemia.

Evaluating Insulin Resistance:

This can be a precursor to type 2 diabetes.

Certain hormonal disorders:

Conditions like acromegaly or Cushing's syndrome can affect insulin production.

A glucose test, also known as a blood sugar test, measures the amount of glucose (sugar) circulating in your bloodstream. Glucose is the primary source of energy for your cells, and maintaining healthy blood sugar levels is crucial for overall health.

A pregnancy test, also known as a human chorionic gonadotropin (HCG) test, is used to detect the presence of a hormone called human chorionic gonadotropin (HCG) in your urine or blood. HCG is produced by the developing placenta shortly after fertilization and its levels rise rapidly in early pregnancy.

How Pregnancy Tests Work:

Pregnancy tests detect the presence of HCG. Home pregnancy tests typically use urine samples, while healthcare professionals can perform blood tests for HCG detection.

Urine tests:

These are readily available over-the-counter at drugstores and come in various formats, including dipsticks, midstream tests, and digital tests. You'll follow the specific instructions provided with the test, which usually involve collecting a urine sample and observing the test strip for the appearance of one or two lines to indicate positive or negative results.

Blood tests:

Blood tests for HCG are performed by a healthcare professional. A blood sample is drawn from your arm and sent to a laboratory for analysis. Blood tests can detect HCG earlier than urine tests, sometimes as early as 6-8 days after ovulation.

The HCV Antibody test, also known as anti-HCV test, is a blood test used to detect the presence of antibodies against the Hepatitis C virus (HCV) in your bloodstream. Here's a breakdown of the test and its implications:

What does the HCV Antibody Test Detect?

Antibodies

These are proteins produced by your immune system in response to a foreign invader, like a virus. If you've ever been infected with HCV, your body will develop antibodies against it.

Past or Present Infection:

The HCV antibody test doesn't differentiate between an active or past infection. A positive test result simply indicates that your body has encountered the virus at some point.

The Hep A Ab IgM test, also known as the Hepatitis A IgM Antibody test, is a blood test used to diagnose recent or current infection with the Hepatitis A virus (HAV). Here's a breakdown of the test and its significance: What Does the Test Detect?

IgM Antibodies:

These are proteins produced by your immune system in the early stages of an infection. The Hep A Ab IgM test specifically detects IgM antibodies against the Hepatitis A virus.

Acute Infection:

The presence of IgM antibodies indicates a recent or ongoing HAV infection. These antibodies typically appear within 5-10 days of exposure to the virus and become undetectable within 6 months of infection.

The Hep B Core Ab IgM test, also known as the Hepatitis B core antibody IgM test, is a blood test used to detect recent or current infection with the Hepatitis B virus (HBV).

Here's a breakdown of the test and its significance:

What Does the Test Detect?

IgM Antibodies:

These are proteins produced by your immune system in the early stages of an infection. The Hep B Core Ab IgM test specifically detects IgM antibodies against the core protein of the Hepatitis B virus.

Acute Infection:

The presence of IgM antibodies indicates a recent or ongoingHBV infection. These antibodies typically appear within a few weeks after exposure to the virus and can persist for up to 6 months.

The Hep B Surface Antibody (HBsAb), also known as anti-HBs, is a blood test used to assess your immunity to the Hepatitis B virus (HBV). Here's a closer look at what the HBsAb test reveals and its significance in understanding your HBV status.

What Does the Hep B Surface Ab Test Detect?

The HBsAb test detects the presence of antibodies specifically directed against the Hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg). These antibodies are produced by your immune system in response to an HBV infection or vaccination.

Interpreting Hep B Surface Ab Test Results:

The results of the HBsAb test can be categorized as follows:

Positive Test:

Indicates the presence of HBsAb antibodies. This can mean two things:

  • Immunity from Past Infection: If you've had a previous Hepatitis B infection and recovered, you'll likely have HBsAb antibodies, signifying immunity.
  • Immunity from Vaccination: If you've been vaccinated against Hepatitis B, the presence of HBsAb antibodies indicates successful vaccination and immunity.

Negative Test

Suggests one of two possibilities:

Also known as the HbA1c test or A1C test, is a simple blood test that provides a snapshot of your average blood sugar (glucose) control over the past 2-3 months. It's a crucial tool for diagnosing and managing diabetes, a condition affecting how your body regulates blood sugar.

An iron test is a general term for blood tests that measure different aspects of iron levels in your body. Iron is a mineral essential for many bodily functions, including oxygen transport and red blood cell production. There are several reasons why your doctor might order an iron test, and the specific test used will depend on what information they're trying to obtain. Here's a breakdown of the different iron tests and what they measure:

Types of Iron Tests:

Serum Iron Test:

This test measures the amount of iron circulating in your blood attached to a protein carrier called transferrin.

Serum Ferritin Test:

Ferritin is the main storage protein for iron in your body. This test measures the iron stored in your cells.

Transferrin Saturation Test:

This test calculates the percentage of transferrin that's saturated with iron, indicating how efficiently iron is being transported in your bloodstream.

Total Iron Binding Capacity (TIBC):

This test measures the total amount of iron that transferrin can bind to.

An iron test is a general term for blood tests that measure different aspects of iron levels in your body. Iron is a mineral essential for many bodily functions, including oxygen transport and red blood cell production. There are several reasons why your doctor might order an iron test, and the specific test used will depend on what information they're trying to obtain. Here's a breakdown of the different iron tests and what they measure:

Types of Iron Tests:

Serum Iron Test:

This test measures the amount of iron circulating in your blood attached to a protein carrier called transferrin.

Serum Ferritin Test:

Ferritin is the main storage protein for iron in your body. This test measures the iron stored in your cells.

Transferrin Saturation Test:

This test calculates the percentage of transferrin that's saturated with iron, indicating how efficiently iron is being transported in your bloodstream.

Total Iron Binding Capacity (TIBC):

This test measures the total amount of iron that transferrin can bind to.

The Lyme Disease test you're referring to is likely the Lyme IgM antibody test. This test is used to detect the presence of IgM antibodies against the bacteria that causes Lyme disease, Borrelia burgdorferi. IgM antibodies are the body's first line of defense against infection and typically appear within a few days to weeks after exposure to the bacteria. Here's a breakdown of the Lyme IgM antibody test, its limitations, and when it might be used:

What Does the Lyme IgM Antibody Test Detect?

IgM Antibodies:

These are proteins produced by your immune system in the early stages of an infection. A positive Lyme IgM antibody test indicates the presence of IgM antibodies against Borrelia burgdorferi.

he QuantiFERON®-TB Gold Plus test (also known as QFT-Plus) is a blood test used to detect infection with Mycobacterium tuberculosis complex organisms, which includes M. tuberculosis (the bacteria that causes tuberculosis or TB), M. bovis (which can cause TB in humans but more commonly infects cattle), and M. africanum (another cause of TB in humans).

What Do the QuantiFERON TB Gold Test Results Mean?

The test results can be:

Positive

Indicates your immune system has reacted to the TB antigens, suggesting either:

  • Latent TB Infection: You're infected with Mycobacterium tuberculosis but not actively sick with TB disease. Latent TB doesn't cause symptoms and isn't contagious.
  • Active TB Disease: You have active TB infection and are currently sick with the disease.

Negative:

Suggests you likely haven't been infected with Mycobacterium tuberculosis complex organisms.

Indeterminate:

In some cases, the test results may be inconclusive and require further testing.

is a blood test used to assess the thyroid hormone binding capacity in your blood. It's an indirect measure that helps doctors interpret the results of other thyroid function tests, particularly the free triiodothyronine (fT3) test.

The free triiodothyronine (fT3) test is a blood test that measures the level of unbound, active triiodothyronine (T3) hormone circulating in your bloodstream. T3 is one of the main thyroid hormones, essential for regulating various bodily functions like metabolism, growth, and development. The fT3 test specifically focuses on the free (unbound) portion of T3, which is the biologically active form readily available to enter your cells and exert its effects.

This is a blood test that measures the level of circulating unbound, active thyroxine (T4) hormone in your bloodstream. T4 is the main thyroid hormone produced by your thyroid gland, and it plays a crucial role in regulating various bodily functions, including metabolism, growth, development, and energy levels. The fT4 test specifically focuses on the free (unbound) portion of T4, which is the biologically active form that can readily enter your cells and exert its effects.

A testosterone test is a blood test that measures the amount of testosterone circulating in your blood. Testosterone is the main sex hormone in males, but it's also present in females in much smaller amounts. Testosterone plays a crucial role in many bodily functions in both sexes, including:

Men

Muscle growth and development, bone health, sperm production, sex drive (libido), red blood cell production.

Women

Bone health, sex drive (libido), mood regulation.

A testosterone test is a blood test that measures the amount of testosterone circulating in your blood. Testosterone is the main sex hormone in males, but it's also present in females in much smaller amounts. Testosterone plays a crucial role in many bodily functions in both sexes There are two main types of testosterone tests:

Total Testosterone:

This test measures the total amount of testosterone in your blood, including both bound and free testosterone. Bound testosterone is attached to proteins and isn't biologically active. Free testosterone is the unbound, active form that can influence tissues throughout the body.

Free Testosterone:

This test specifically measures the level of free, unbound testosterone in your blood.

The T4 test, also known as the thyroxine test, is a blood test used to assess your thyroid function. The thyroid gland is a butterfly-shaped gland located at the base of your throat. It produces hormones, including thyroxine (T4), which play a vital role in regulating various bodily functions like metabolism, growth, development, and energy levels.

T4 direct test: A T4 direct test, also sometimes called a free T4 direct test, is a specific type of blood test used to measure the level of free, unbound, active thyroxine (T4) hormone in your bloodstream.

The TSH test, also known as the thyroid-stimulating hormone test, is a simple blood test that plays a crucial role in evaluating your thyroid function. The thyroid gland, located at the base of your throat, is responsible for producing hormones, including thyroxine (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3), that regulate various bodily functions like metabolism, growth, and development. The TSH test measures the level of thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) produced by your pituitary gland.

A thyroid panel test is a comprehensive blood test that evaluates multiple aspects of your thyroid function. It typically measures the levels of several hormones and proteins involved in the thyroid hormone production and regulation cycle. Here's a breakdown of the thyroid panel test, its components, and why it might be used:

What Does a Thyroid Panel Test Measure?

A thyroid panel test usually includes measurements of the following:

Thyroid-Stimulating Hormone (TSH):

Produced by the pituitary gland, TSH stimulates the thyroid gland to produce thyroid hormones.

Free Thyroxine (fT4):

The main thyroid hormone responsible for regulating various bodily functions. It's the most important measure of circulating, active thyroid hormone.

Sometimes:

Additional tests like free triiodothyronine (fT3), thyroid peroxidase antibodies (TPOAb), and thyroglobulin antibodies (TgAb) might also be included in the panel, depending on the specific reasons for testing.

A urine culture test is a laboratory test used to identify the presence and specific type of bacteria or other germs causing an infection in your urinary tract. Your urinary tract includes your kidneys, ureters (tubes that carry urine from your kidneys to your bladder), bladder, and urethra (the tube that carries urine out of your body). Here's a breakdown of the urine culture test, its role in diagnosing urinary tract infections (UTIs), and when it might be used:

What Does a Urine Culture Test Do?

Identify Germs:

The primary purpose of a urine culture is to identify the specific bacteria or other microorganisms causing a UTI. This helps determine the most appropriate course of antibiotic treatment.

Antibiotic Sensitivity Testing:

In many cases, the culture is combined with an antibiotic sensitivity test. This test exposes the identified bacteria to different antibiotics to see which ones are most effective in eliminating them.

Why Get a Urine Culture Test?

There are several reasons why your doctor might recommend a urine culture test:

Symptoms of UTI:

If you experience symptoms suggestive of a UTI, such as burning pain during urination, frequent urination, or blood in your urine, a urine culture can help confirm the diagnosis and identify the culprit.

Recurrent UTIs:

If you experience recurrent UTIs, a urine culture can help identify specific bacteria involved, allowing for targeted treatment and potentially reducing the risk of future infections.

High-risk Groups:

For individuals who are pregnant, immunocompromised, or have undergone urinary tract procedures, a urine culture might be used to evaluate even if symptoms are mild or absent to prevent complications.

Confirmatory Test:

A urine culture might be used as a confirmatory test after an initial urinalysis shows signs of infection.

A urine culture test is a laboratory test used to identify the presence and specific type of bacteria or other germs causing an infection in your urinary tract. Your urinary tract includes your kidneys, ureters (tubes that carry urine from your kidneys to your bladder), bladder, and urethra (the tube that carries urine out of your body). Here's a breakdown of the urine culture test, its role in diagnosing urinary tract infections (UTIs), and when it might be used:

What Does a Urine Culture Test Do?

Identify Germs:

The primary purpose of a urine culture is to identify the specific bacteria or other microorganisms causing a UTI. This helps determine the most appropriate course of antibiotic treatment.

Antibiotic Sensitivity Testing:

In many cases, the culture is combined with an antibiotic sensitivity test. This test exposes the identified bacteria to different antibiotics to see which ones are most effective in eliminating them.

A vitamin B12 test, also known as a cobalamin test, is a blood test used to measure the level of vitamin B12 in your body. Vitamin B12 is an essential nutrient that plays a crucial role in various bodily functions, including:

Maintaining healthy nerve function

Red blood cell production

DNA synthesis

Cellular metabolism

Why Get a Vitamin B12 Test?

There are several reasons why your doctor might recommend a vitamin B12 test:

Symptoms of Deficiency:

If you experience symptoms that could be associated with vitamin B12 deficiency, such as fatigue, weakness, tingling or numbness in the hands and feet, anemia (low red blood cell count), difficulty maintaining balance, or memory problems, a vitamin B12 test can help determine if a deficiency is the underlying cause.

Risk Factors for Deficiency:

Certain factors can increase your risk of vitamin B12 deficiency, and testing might be recommended if you fall into one of these categories:

  • Older adults: Vitamin B12 absorption naturally decreases with age.
  • Dietary restrictions: People who follow a strict vegetarian or vegan diet are at increased risk, as vitamin B12 is naturally found in animal products.
  • Digestive disorders: Conditions that affect the digestive tract, such as Crohn's disease, celiac disease, or pernicious anemia (an autoimmune condition that affects vitamin B12 absorption), can lead to deficiency.
  • Medications: Certain medications can interfere with vitamin B12 absorption.

The Vitamin D, 25-Hydroxy test, also known as the 25(OH)D test or simply the vitamin D test, is a blood test used to assess your vitamin D levels. Vitamin D is a crucial nutrient for overall health, playing a vital role in:

Calcium absorption:

Vitamin D helps your body absorb calcium from your diet,which is essential for maintaining strong bones and teeth.

Immune function:

Vitamin D supports a healthy immune system and may help your body fight off infections.

Cell growth:

Vitamin D is involved in cell growth and differentiation throughout the body.

Why Get a Vitamin D, 25-Hydroxy Test?

There are several reasons why your doctor might recommend this test:

Risk Factors for Deficiency:

Certain factors can increase your risk of vitamin D deficiency, and testing might be recommended if you fall into one of these categories:

  • Limited sun exposure: Sun exposure is the primary source of vitamin D production in the body. People who live in areas with limited sunlight, have limited outdoor activity, or wear sun-protective clothing regularly may be at risk.
  • Darker skin complexion: Melanin, the pigment that gives skin its color, can reduce vitamin D production from sunlight. People with darker skin tones may be more susceptible to deficiency.
  • Certain medical conditions: Conditions that affect fat absorption, such as Crohn's disease or celiac disease, can hinder vitamin D absorption as vitamin D is fat-soluble.
  • Older adults: Vitamin D production in the skin naturally decreases with age.

For workers exposed to airborne lead above specific levels, OSHA mandates employers to provide biological monitoring through blood lead testing.

Blood Lead Levels and Worker Removal:

  • OSHA regulations establish a permissible exposure limit (PEL) for lead and an action level.
  • The PEL is the maximum allowable average concentration of lead in workplace air over an 8-hour shift.
  • The action level is a lower threshold, and if airborne lead levels exceed the action level, employers must initiate specific compliance activities, including blood lead testing for exposed workers.
  • If a worker's blood lead test results indicate elevated levels, exceeding OSHA's removal criteria, the employee must be temporarily removed from exposure until their blood lead levels return to acceptable ranges.

OSHA Blood Lead Testing Requirements:

  • Employers are required to use laboratories that meet specific criteria for accuracy in blood lead proficiency testing.
  • Blood samples must be analyzed for lead and zinc protoporphyrin (or free erythrocyte protoporphyrin) to provide a more comprehensive assessment.

A Zinc Protoporphyrin (ZPP) test is a blood test used to measure the level of zinc protoporphyrin in your red blood cells. Zinc protoporphyrin is a molecule produced during the body's natural process of red blood cell production. An elevated ZPP level can indicate two potential conditions:

Iron deficiency:

Iron is a crucial component of hemoglobin, the protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen throughout the body. When iron stores are depleted, the body may produce abnormally high levels of zinc protoporphyrin instead of incorporating iron into hemoglobin.

Lead poisoning:

Lead exposure can interfere with heme synthesis, the process of hemoglobin production. This can also lead to increased zinc protoporphyrin levels.

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STD testing

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Chlamydia: Chlamydia is a common sexually transmitted infection (STI) caused by bacteria. It's often asymptomatic, meaning you may not experience any noticeable symptoms. However, getting tested is crucial to prevent complications and protect your sexual partners.

Gonorrhea: A gonorrhea test is a quick and straightforward procedure used to diagnose an infection with the bacteria Neisseria gonorrhoeae, which causes gonorrhea. This common sexually transmitted infection (STI) can affect the genitals, rectum, throat, and even the eyes.

HIV

Herpes 1 and 2

Chlamydia

Gonorrhea

Syphilis

Hepatitis B

Hepatitis C

HIV

Chlamydia

Gonorrhea

Syphilis

An HIV test is used to detect the presence of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) in your body. HIV is the virus that causes AIDS (acquired immunodeficiency syndrome). Early detection of HIV is crucial because it allows you to get prompt medical care and treatment, which can significantly improve your quality of life and lifespan.

Types of HIV Tests:
There are several types of HIV tests available, each with its own advantages and limitations:

Antibody tests:

These tests detect antibodies that your body produces in response to HIV infection. Antibody tests are the most common type of HIV test. They can take anywhere from a few weeks to several months for your body to produce enough antibodies to be detected by the test.

Antigen/Antibody tests:

These tests can detect both HIV antibodies and antigens (parts of the virus itself). This type of test can shorten the window period for detection compared to antibody tests alone.

Nucleic Acid Tests (NAT):

These tests are the most accurate and can detect the actual virus in your blood. NAT tests can identify HIV infection very early, as soon as 10 to 33 days after exposure. However, they are typically more expensive and not routinely used for initial diagnosis.

Chlamydia is a common sexually transmitted infection (STI) caused by bacteria. It's often asymptomatic, meaning you may not experience any noticeable symptoms. However, getting tested is crucial to prevent complications and protect your sexual partners.

A gonorrhea test is a quick and straightforward procedure used to diagnose an infection with the bacteria Neisseria gonorrhoeae, which causes gonorrhea. This common sexually transmitted infection (STI) can affect the genitals, rectum, throat, and even the eyes.

The herpes simplex virus (HSV) test detects the presence of either HSV-1 or HSV-2, the viruses that cause oral herpes (cold sores) and genital herpes, respectively. While HSV-1 typically causes cold sores, it can also cause genital herpes in some cases. HSV-2 is the most common cause of genital herpes.

The RPR test, also known as the Rapid Plasma Reagin test, is a blood test used to screen for syphilis, a sexually transmitted infection (STI). Here's a breakdown of the RPR test:

What is Syphilis?
Syphilis is a bacterial infection that can cause serious health problems if left untreated. It can spread through direct contact with syphilis sores during vaginal, anal, or oral sex. Pregnant women with syphilis can also transmit the infection to their babies during childbirth.

Titer testing

The Hep B Surface Antibody (HBsAb), also known as anti-HBs, is a blood test used to assess your immunity to the Hepatitis B virus (HBV). Here's a closer look at what the HBsAb test reveals and its significance in understanding your HBV status.

What Does the Hep B Surface Ab Test Detect?
The HBsAb test detects the presence of antibodies specifically directed against the Hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg). These antibodies are produced by your immune system in response to an HBV infection or vaccination.

Positive Test:

Indicates the presence of HBsAb antibodies. This can mean two things:

  • Immunity from Past Infection: If you've had a previous Hepatitis B infection and recovered, you'll likely have HBsAb antibodies, signifying immunity.
  • Immunity from Vaccination: If you've been vaccinated against Hepatitis B, the presence of HBsAb antibodies indicates successful vaccination and immunity.

Also known as an MMR immunity test, is a blood test used to assess your immunity to measles, mumps, and rubella. These are three highly contagious viral infections that can cause serious health complications. Here's a breakdown of the MMR titer test, its purpose, and what the results mean:

What Does the MMR Titer Test Detect?
The MMR titer test measures the levels of antibodies in your blood against the measles, mumps, and rubella viruses. Antibodies are proteins produced by your immune system in response to a previous infection or vaccination.

  • Measles: The test detects antibodies against the measles virus.
  • Mumps: The test detects antibodies against the mumps virus.
  • Rubella: The test tests for antibodies against the rubella virus.

Interpreting MMR Titer Test Results:

  • Positive Titer: Indicates the presence of antibodies against the respective virus (measles, mumps, or rubella). This suggests immunity from a previous infection or vaccination.
  • Negative Titer: Suggests you may not be immune to the virus. Vaccination is typically recommended in this case.
  • Indeterminate Result: In rare cases, the test results may be unclear and require retesting or further evaluation.

This is a blood test used to determine if you have immunity to the varicella-zoster virus, the cause of chickenpox. A positive IgG test result indicates past exposure to VZV, either through:

Chickenpox Infection:

If you've had chickenpox in the past, you'll likely have detectable IgG antibodies against VZV.

Vaccination:

Vaccination against chickenpox with the varicella vaccine also leads to the development of IgG antibodies.

Interpreting Varicella Antibodies, IgG Test Results:

Positive Test:

Indicates the presence of IgG antibodies against VZV, suggesting immunity from a past infection or vaccination.

Negative Test:

Suggests you likely haven't had chickenpox or been vaccinated, and therefore may be susceptible to the varicella-zoster virus.

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Drug Tests

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What is Drug Screening

Drug screening is the process of testing a biological sample, such as urine, hair, blood, or saliva, to detect the presence of illegal or unauthorized prescription drugs. This testing can be used for various purposes, including:

Pre-employment screening

Random drug testing

Reasonable suspicion testing

Return-to-work testing

Court ordered

School Program

We offer 5 and 10 panel drug testing (Certified Laboratory Analysis) and Instant (Rapid) Drug Testing.

Laboratory Analysis required for State of Florida Drug Free Workplace Act  and all DOT drug testing.

Our Medical Director, Clinton G. Bush III, M.D. is a certified Medical Review Officer (MRO) by the MROCC. There is no additional fee for review of the results; our price includes his review of all laboratory drug test results.

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