Seven Types of Tests Done in a Medical Pathology Lab

Seven Types of Tests Done in a Medical Pathology Lab

Seven Types of Tests Done in a Medical Pathology Lab

Do you ever wonder where you blood samples go after they leave your doctors’ office?  People often get confused when it comes to the specifics of diagnostics, yet they are a vital element of illness detection, diagnosis, and treatment.  Certainly, if you are sick, the findings of your blood tests and pathology will lead to a lot of decisions concerning your treatment and care.  Many pathology labs offer a range of testing capabilities that determine whether they can do this or not.  These are a few common types of tests done in medical pathology labs.

The Complete Blood Count

This test, often known as a CBC, is the most conducted blood test at a pathology lab.  It counts the different types and amounts of cells in the blood, such as red and white blood cells and platelets.  It is used to assess general health, screen for diseases, and assess nutritional status. CBCs can assist in evaluating symptoms like fatigue, weakness, and bruises and the diagnosis of illnesses such as anemia, leukemia, malaria, and infection.

Prothrombin Time (PT)

This test determines how long it takes blood to clot. This clotting test detects and monitors the presence and activity of five different blood clotting factors. The test can detect bleeding abnormalities and may also be used to evaluate drug therapies that prevent blood clot formation.

Basic Metabolic Panel Tests

This test evaluates glucose, sodium, potassium, calcium, chloride, carbon dioxide, blood urea nitrogen, and creatinine, which can assist in determining blood sugar levels, kidney functions, and electrolyte and fluid balance. The Basic Metabolic Panel can help your doctor observe the effects of drugs that you are taking, such as high blood pressure medications, which can aid in the diagnosis of specific illnesses or can be used as part of a standard health screening. Before this test, you will need to fast for 12 hours.

Urinalysis Tests

This is a comprehensive screening test used to look for early indicators of disease and is frequently the first lab test conducted. Doctors could potentially use it to track diabetes or kidney problems and other outcomes such as pregnancies. Through the rapid urine test, the doctor can diagnose any urinary tract infections.

Cultures

Cultures are used in the diagnosing and treating of infections. UTIs, pneumonia, strep throat, MRSA, and meningitis can all be discovered and tested for suitable antibiotic treatment.

Lipid Panel Tests

The lipid panel is a collection of tests that are used to assess the risk of heart disease. It considers your cholesterol and triglyceride levels.

Liver Panel Exams

The liver panel is a collection of tests used to evaluate liver function and rule out the presence of liver malignancies. The test assesses the number of enzymes, proteins, and chemicals generated or expelled by the liver. If your tests reveal that you have liver damage, this could indicate that you have one of many diseases or infections that affect the liver.

When you are looking to make sure that your lab facility has the testing capabilities to gain the business you need, you will want to work with Hankins Consulting.  We can provide you with customized laboratory solutions to help your lab grow and thrive.  Contact us to hear about the range of services we offer today.

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