In healthcare, laboratory tests are integral to the diagnosis, as well as the screening and monitoring of health conditions. By knowing the common lab tests and how to read their results, a patient can actively participate in their healthcare journey.
Typical Lab Tests
- Complete Blood Count (CBC): This test evaluates overall health by measuring components such as red blood cells, white blood cells, hemoglobin, hematocrit, and platelets. Abnormal results may indicate infections, anemia, or other medical conditions.
- Basic Metabolic Panel (BMP): Assess blood glucose, calcium, and electrolytes (sodium and potassium). I would provide information about kidney function, and would identify problems such as diabetes or electrolyte problems.
- Lipid Panel: Measure cholesterol levels including LDL (bad cholesterol) and HDL (good cholesterol) and triglycerides. It’s important for assessing heart disease risk.
- Urinalysis: This test examines urine to detect substances such as glucose, protein, or blood, which can indicate kidney disease, urinary tract infections, or diabetes.
- Hemoglobin A1c: This blood test measures average blood glucose levels over a two- to three-month period to help diagnose and manage diabetes.
- Thyroid Function Tests: These test levels of thyroid hormones to see how well the thyroid gland is functioning and can be used to diagnose conditions such as hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism.
Interpreting Test Results
Lab results are generally interpreted against reference ranges, which are values observed in a healthy population. These ranges, however, can differ depending on age, sex and the reference used by the laboratory.
- Normal Results: Which means the values fall within the reference range and indicate typical functioning.
- Abnormal Results: Values that fall outside the reference range may signal a health problem but don’t prove a diagnosis. Only a healthcare provider can further evaluate any condition that you may have.
How Test Results May Be Affected
There are a number of things that can influence lab test results:
- Diet: Recent consumption can affect levels of glucose and lipids.
- Drugs and Supplements: Certain medications and supplements can affect test results.
- Physical Activity: Blood components are affected by the exercise itself.
- Menstrual cycle: Hormonal fluctuations during menstruation can impact some test results.
Common Tests and Their Implications
- Strep A Test: Detects the presence of Streptococcus bacteria, confirming strep throat infections.
- Cholesterol Test: Measures lipid levels to assess heart disease risk.
- Stool Test: Used to detect colon cancer, infections, or digestive disorders.
- Blood Glucose Test: Evaluates blood sugar levels for diabetes diagnosis and management.
- Tumor Marker Test: Measures substances that may indicate the presence of cancer, aiding in diagnosis and monitoring treatment effectiveness.
Understanding Result Types
- Negative Result: Means the specific substance or condition is not present.
- Positive Result: Positive finds the substance or condition.
- Inconclusive Result: Results are inconclusive and more testing may be beneath.
- False Positive/Negative test: Sometimes the test will indicate a condition when it is not present or vice versa. These outcomes are influenced by factors like test sensitivity and specificity.
Preparing for Lab Tests
Good preparation can improve the tests accuracy:
- Fasting: Certain tests require fasting; follow your provider’s instructions.
- Medication Review: Tell your provider about all the medications and supplements you take.
- Hydration: Drinking enough water can make it easier to draw blood and collect a urine sample.
Role of Electronic Health Records (EHR)
They also house your lab results, medical history and any other information that helps to give your health care providers the whole picture so they can make decisions based on what is best for your care.
Empowering Your Health Through Laboratory Testing
Learning what common laboratory tests mean and what their results can indicate gives you the power to participate in your own healthcare. Note that your results should always be discussed with the provider who ordered the test, to ensure clarification of the possible significance and the testing and follow-up as warranted.
Absolute Urgent Care offers a full line of lab services to ensure the health and well-being of our patients.
