According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, test results from blood tests have a significant impact on 70% of medical decisions. Blood tests are used to check for various conditions and can help diagnose, manage, or treat various medical issues. Here are some examples of what common blood tests check for.
1. Complete Blood Count (CBC)
The CBC is one of the most common blood tests. It measures many different things including red and white blood cells, hemoglobin, and platelets. The test can help diagnose issues such as anemia, infection, and leukemia. In addition to helping diagnose these conditions, the CBC can also be used to monitor certain medical conditions or help determine the cause of an illness. If you have symptoms such as fatigue, shortness of breath, or bruising, your doctor may order you to seek a clinical lab consulting service to get a CBC.
2. Thyroid Function Test (TFT)
The thyroid function test checks how well your thyroid is working. The thyroid is a gland in your neck that helps regulate your metabolism. If the thyroid is not working properly, it can affect weight, energy levels, and mood problems. A TFT can help diagnose problems with the thyroid, such as hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism. Additionally, the test can help monitor the effectiveness of treatment for thyroid conditions and help detect early signs of these conditions before symptoms appear.
3. Liver Function Test (LFT)
A liver function test is used to check for potential damage or disease in the liver. The test typically measures levels of bilirubin, aspartate aminotransferase (AST), and alanine aminotransferase (ALT) in the blood. Bilirubin is a substance that is produced when the liver breaks down red blood cells. AST and ALT are enzymes that are found in the liver. If levels of these substances are high, it may be a sign that there is trouble in the liver. LFTs can help diagnose and monitor a number of conditions affecting the liver, including hepatitis and cirrhosis.
4. Lipid Panel
A lipid panel is a blood test that measures cholesterol and triglyceride levels in the blood. High cholesterol and triglyceride levels can increase your risk for heart disease, stroke, and other health problems. A lipid panel can help diagnose high cholesterol or triglycerides and can be used to monitor the effectiveness of treatment for these conditions.
Whether you are experiencing symptoms, simply want to keep track of your health, or are looking for new tests for your patients, a clinical lab consulting service can provide valuable information through various blood tests. Visit our office or call us today to learn more about the clinical lab consulting service and the different blood tests available.