Blood Test Results

Admin — Thu, 25 Aug 2011 03:10:18 +0000

Blood Test Results

Blood test results ought to always be interpreted by professionals in the medical field. However, it's also a good thing to have background knowledge of blood tests. A blood test is that test requested by a doctor to be able to make the diagnosis. To carry out a blood test, qualified health care professionals extract a blood sample inside a vein, usually in the arm, with the use of a syringe. A typical blood test checks electrolytes in your body and could also examine complete blood count, blood glucose level, and liver enzyme levels.

Why would you get a blood test?:

Find the cause of symptoms such as fatigue, weight loss, weakness, fever, or bruising.
See how much blood has been lost if there is bleeding.
Diagnose polycythemia.
DNA testing to see if you have inherited a condition or if there is a gene mutation.
Find an infection.
Diagnose diseases of the blood, such as leukemia.
To check if there's any kind of damage to any of the internal organs within your body.
To check your blood type.
Find anemia.
To measure levels of a range of various chemicals, such as enzymes, electrolytes or oxygen as well as carbon dioxide in your blood.
Check how the body is dealing with some types of drug or radiation treatment.
Check how abnormal bleeding affects the blood cells and counts.
To determine the levels of your cholesterol.
Screen for high and low values prior to surgery.
Find out if there are too many or not enough of certain types of cells. This might help discover other conditions, such as too many eosinophils may mean an allergy or perhaps asthma is present.

Types of Blood Tests

Some of the most common blood tests are:

Each test is outlined below. For more tests visit our Blood Tests categories

A complete blood count (CBC)

Blood chemistry tests

Blood enzyme tests

Blood tests to measure heart disease risk and cardiac risk

Thyroid function test

Blood tests to measure hormone levels

Complete Blood Count Test

A Complete Blood Count (CBC) blood test examines white blood cells (WBC), red blood cells (RBC) and platelets. It will likewise look for hemoglobin levels and hematocrit. A low (RBC) count is likely to suggest that you have anemia. The (RBC) count is going to be abnormally high for those who have fluid loss in the body because of diarrhea, dehydration, or burn. An extremely high (WBC) count shows the existence of infection. The (CBC) examination procedures numerous elements of your blood, as mentioned in this posting below.

Complete Blood Count

White Blood Cell (WBC): The total count of white blood cells per volume of complete blood. Irregular levels may suggest an infection, particular sorts of the leukemia disease, or even bone marrow diseases.

Red Blood Cell (RBC): The total count of red blood cells per volume of complete blood. Irregular red blood cell levels can be a manifestation of anemia, dehydration or possibly blood loss.

Hemoglobin (Hgb): Hemoglobin is the quantity of oxygen transporting protein contained within the red blood cells. Irregular levels may suggest anemia, red blood cell dysfunction, or even vitamin deficiencies.

Hematocrit (Hct): Hematocrit is the area of the blood volume populated by red blood cells. Irregular levels would suggest anemia, bone marrow breakdown, as well as certain types of cancers.

Platelet (thrombocytes) count: Very clear cell fragments which can be produced from fragmentation of precursor megakaryocytes. When the volume of platelets is not high enough, extreme blood loss could happen, in the event the volume of platelets is too high, blood clots can build thrombosis which can eventuate into a stroke, myocardial infarction, pulmonary embolism or the congestion of blood vessels.

Mean platelet volume (MPV): is an apparatus that measures typically the average dimensions of platelets seen in blood, and is also commonly a part of blood tests contained in the (CBC) complete blood count. (MPV) is greater should there be devastation to platelets. This might be viewed as in immune thrombocytopenic purpura (ITP), as well as in myeloproliferative diseases and Bernard-Soulier syndrome.

Iron: Iron works together with protein to produce the hemoglobin within red blood cells, which carries oxygen to all the areas of the body. Levels evaluate numerous conditions for instance iron deficient, anemia as well as hemochromatosis.

Complete Blood Count Chart

The complete blood count chart beneath demonstrates many normal ranges for various elements of the complete blood count (CBC). Many of the normal ranges vary for males and females. Other elements, including age group as well as ethnic background, may also impact normal ranges.Your physician ought to go over your outcomes together with you. The doctor will consult you further should your results are not in the normal range for your group.

The table below shows some normal ranges for different parts of the complete blood count (CBC).

Some of the normal ranges are different for men and women. Other factors, such as age and race, also may affect normal ranges. Your doctor should discuss your results with you. He or she will advise you further if your results are outside the normal range for your group.

(CBC) Reference Chart

CBC Chart

Blood Chemistry Tests/Basic Metabolic Panel

The basic metabolic panel (BMP) is known as a category of lab tests which measures various chemical compounds within the blood. The (BMP) consists of blood glucose, hemoglobin, calcium, as well as electrolyte checks, in addition to blood tests which determine kidney functionality.

Blood Chemistry Test

Blood Glucose

Tests for blood glucose is carried out to see if one has diabetes. Hypoglycemia is that condition in which a person has low degree of glucose and the symptoms include dizziness, weakness, fainting, as well as collapsing.

Blood Glucose Levels

This is a measure of the particular sugar level in your blood. Higher values are usually associated with consuming food prior to the test, as well as a symptom of diabetes.

The normal range with regard to fasting glucose is 60 -99 mg/dl
Impaired Fasting Glucose (IFG) is definded by blood glucose levels of 100 - 125
Diabetes is diagnosed when your plasma glucose levels happen to be of 126 or more

Blood Glucose Chart

Glycohemoglobin

Glycohemoglobin (Hemoglobin A1c, HbA1c) measures the volume of glucose chemically linked to your red blood cells. A high level indicates poor diabetes control.

Minerals

Calcium is manipulated within the bloodstream by the parathyroid glands and also the kidneys. Calcium can be found mainly inside bone tissue which is very important for proper blood clotting, cell activity as well as nerves. An elevated calcium could be because of prescription drugs like thiazide type diuretics, inherited disorders associated with calcium controlled in the kidneys, or even excessive parathyroid gland activity or vitamin D.

Electrolytes

5 electrolytes which are examined in any blood test include:

potassium
sodium
calcium
chloride
bicarbonate

Sodium plays a vital role to maintain fluid balance within your body. You might have low sodium concentration if you are taking diuretics, have kidney disease, or going through diarrhea. A rise in the level of potassium could indicate a kidney problem. An abnormal level of potassium can also be a sign of heart problems. An abnormally low or higher level of bicarbonate is like to indicate kidney problems and the lungs.

Enzyme Tests

Enzymes are chemicals that assist control chemical reactions inside your body. There are several blood enzyme tests.These blood enzyme test include Creatine Kinase (CK) or Protein Electrophoresis both Enzymes are used to check for heart attacks.

Enzymes

The below abbreviations for proteins called enzymes that assist every one of the chemical activities inside body cells to occur.

Aspartate transaminase (AST)
Alanine transaminase (ALT)
Glutamic-oxaloacetic transaminase (SGOT)
Glutamic-pyruvic transaminase (SGPT)
Alkaline phosphatase (ALP)
Gamma glutamyl transpeptidase (GGT)

Liver enzyme testing helps you to monitor the health of the liver. High amounts of both Glutamic-oxaloacetic transaminase (SGOT) and Glutamic-pyruvic transaminase (SGPT) mean liver cells which are damaged, as is the case with people with viral hepatitis. Below is a enzyme reference chart.

Enzyme Reference Chart

Enzyme Chart

Creatine Kinase

Creatine Kinase (CK), also recognized as creatine phosphokinase (CPK) or phospho-creatine kinase is a blood product released once the heart muscle is damaged. High levels of (CK) within the blood often means that you've experienced a heart attack.

Protein Electrophores

Protein electrophoresis is also known as Immunoelectrophoresis which is a procedure for examining a mixture of proteins by using gel electrophoresis, primarily in blood serum, the two main classes associated with blood proteins are Serum Albumin and Globulin, both of them are reletively equal in proportion.

Blood Urea Nitrogen

Blood Urea Nitrogen (BUN) is a test to measure the amount of nitrogen within the blood in the form of urea nitrogen and a measurement of renal function. Blood Urea Nitrogen (BUN) is a waste product produced in the liver and excreted by the kidneys. Normal adult blood should comprise among 7 to 21 mg of urea nitrogen per 100 ml (7-21 mg/dL) of blood

Cardiac Risk Markers

C-reactive protein (CRP) test

A (CRP) blood test result is an indication of inflammation somewhere in the body. But the problem is that the (CRP) test will not be able to indicate the part of the body where the inflammation is present. Inflammation is notable role in heart problems like of coronary artery disease, by which fatty deposits clog the arteries. Determining (CRP) alone will not inform your physician of any heart problem but combining it with other blood test results will greatly help in giving an idea of the health of the heart.

Blood Lipids

Blood lipids or blood fats are lipids in the blood. They sometimes attach themself to molecules and mostly transported in a protein capsule. Blood lipids are mainly cholesterol and fatty acids. Cholesterol is a fat-like substance in the blood which, if elevated will cause Hyperlipidemia and has been associated with cardiovascular disease.

Lipoprotein Panel

The below table exhibits ranges with regard to total cholesterol, Low-density lipoprotein (LDL) ("bad") cholesterol, as well as High-density lipoprotein (HDL) ("good") cholesterol levels following 7 to 12 hours of fasting. High blood cholestrerol levels is really a danger factor with regard to coronary heart disease.

Total Cholesterol Chart

LDL Cholesterol Chart

HDL Cholesterol Chart

Thyroid Function Test

Thyroid

The thyroid’s job is to make thyroid hormone, which is secreted into the blood and then carried to
every tissue in the body. Thyroid hormone is essential to help each cell in each tissue and organ to work right. For example, thyroid hormone helps the body use energy, stay warm, and keep the brain, heart, muscles, and other organs working as they should.

Thyroid function test, there's 2 types of thyroid hormones simply measurable within the blood, thyroxine (T4) as well as triiodothyronine (T3). Generally the majority of diseases impact both (T4) and (T3) equally. It's much easier and cheaper to measure the (T4) level, therefore (T3) is generally not really measured.

Hormones Balance Test

Take the hormone balance test to determine if you are suffering from an in-balance of hormones. There are various symptoms for both men and woman. Below are the fundamentals of each hormone.

Insulin - is a hormone fundamental to controlling carbohydrate and fat metabolism within the body. Insulin will cause cells within the liver organ, muscle, as well as excess fat tissue to take up glucose through the blood saving it as glycogen within the liver along with muscle.

C-peptide - This serves as a significant linker amongst the A- and also the B- chains of insulin and also allows for the successful construction, folding, as well as processing of insulin within the endoplasmic reticulum.

Testosterone - It is a male sex hormone, nevertheless both males and females currently have detectable testosterone levels. In males the major supply is in the testicles, in females the ovaries. Like thyroid hormone, this hormone can also be transported through proteins, for instance Sex Hormone Binding Globulin (SHBG).

Estradiol - Is a sex hormone. Estradiol is abbreviated as E2 because it provides 2 hydroxyl groupings in the molecular structure. Estrone provides 1 (E1) and estriol has 3 (E3). Estradiol is approximately 10 times as potent as estrone and around 80 times as potent as estriol in its estrogenic effect.

Get tested and stay healthy!

We all need a blood test at some stage in life. At these times, it is best to speak with the physician and have an idea of the tests needed. Once you have the blood test results and are not sure of the meaning, you should talk to the physician again. Sometimes, even when all the blood test results show that things are normal, you might still need to carry out the tests on several occasions to know the true situation.

CMP Blood Test

Admin — Thu, 25 Aug 2011 02:37:51 +0000

What is a CMP Blood Test?

The Comprehensive Metabolic Panel test, also known as a CMP blood test, is an extremely common group of tests that a physician will order when attempting to determine the functionality and health of various organs of the body such as the kidneys, the liver, as well as other important information about electrolytes, acid/base balance, blood sugar, and blood protein concentration.

CMP Blood Test

The Comprehensive Metabolic Panel test is almost always a group of 14 tests that are recognized according to a standardized CPT code used by insurance companies and medicare. Sometimes, however, certain laboratories will adjust the specific tests performed based on the needs specified by the doctor, and to address cost considerations. CMP blood test results provide a wide range of valuable health information to your doctor.

Comprehensive Metabolic Panel Uses

The Comprehensive Metabolic Panel tests for:

Blood glucose level (useful in checking for hyperglycemia, hypoglycemia, diabetes, and pre-diabetes; also useful during pregnancy)

Blood calcium level (useful in identifying a variety of diseases that affect the kidney, the bones, and the nervous system)

Blood albumin/globulin ratio (useful in identifying a variety of liver and kidney diseases and disorders, and can also be used to evaluate the adequacy of nutrition being consumed by the patient)

Total blood protein ratio (useful in identifying a variety of liver and kidney diseases and disorders, and can also be used to evaluate the adequacy of nutrition being consumed by the patient)

Blood sodium level (useful for determining causes of dehydration and edema, monitoring high or low blood pressure, monitoring electrolyte balance, identifying kidney problems, and diagnosing chronic and acute hypernatremia or hyponatremia.

Blood potassium level (useful for identifying electrolyte imbalance, to monitor chronic and acute hypernatremia or hyponatremia, used to identify causes of arrhythmia and weakness, and to diagnose or monitor kidney disease)

Blood bicarbonate level (also known as Total CO2 test; used in electrolyte panels, and to diagnose or monitor and electrolyte imbalance or acid-base imbalance; used when diagnosing weakness, excessive vomiting, respiratory distress, and acidosis or alkalosis)

Blood chloride level (used in electrolyte panels; used to test the acid-base balance)

Blood urea nitrogen level (used to evaluate the effectiveness of dialysis and other kidney disease treatments; used to identify kidney dysfunction)

Blood creatinine level (used to evaluate kidney function, and will be used to monitor the effects of medications that might have, or are known to have, effects on the kidneys)

Alkaline phosphatase level (used to identify or evaluate the treatment of liver and bone disorders)

Alanine aminotransferase level (used to identify liver damage, and monitor treatment for liver damage)

Aspartate aminotransferase level (used to identify liver damage, and to monitor treatment for liver damage)

Bilirubin level (used to identify liver disorders, or monitor liver-related health issues and treatments)

What Ranges Are Normal for a CMP Test?

The following ranges are considered to be normal for individuals older adults:

Albumin: 3.5-5.0 g/dL
Alkaline phosphatase: 30-125 units/L
ALT: 0-40 units/L
AST: 3-44 unites/L
Bilirubin: 02-1.3 mg/dL
Calcium: 8.7-10.7 mg/dL
CO2: 22-29 mmol/L
Chloride: 99-108 mmol/L
Creatinine: .75-1.2 mg/dL for males, .65-1.00 mg/dL for females
Glucose: 60-99mg/dL for fasting patients, 60-200mg/dL for nonfasting patients
Potassium: 3.4-5.3 mmol/L
Protein, total: 6.0-8.2 g/dL
Sodium urea nitrogen: 8-21 mg/Dl

This information was sourced from Rush University Medical Center’s website.

How is the Test Administered?

The test is administered in a manner similar to most other blood tests. The physician, nurse, or phlebotomist will clean an area of skin – usually on the arm – with a sterilizing wipe (usually using alcohol). Then, a vein will be identified. This is usually a vein that is found close to the surface of the skin. If necessary, a tourniquet will be applied. Then, a needle will be inserted into the sterilized area so that it pierces the vein. Then, the needle will be connected to a special collection tube. This collection tube has been sealed with a vacuum, which allows the tube to collect blood relatively quickly.

It is important to discuss whether or not you need to fast for 10-12 hours before the test is taken. In some cases, fasting might be necessary, because the body’s processing of food will affect various readings, and may hide underlying conditions. In other cases, the doctor might ask you to eat as normal, in order to diagnose certain problems related to food consumption, or because the indicators the doctor is looking for are not likely to be affected by the consumption of food. If your doctor gives you any instructions regarding food consumption, it is very important that they are followed precisely.

CMP Blood Test

What is the Test Used For?

The test is used assess a broad range of health indicators that can indicate health problems within the human body. It is a relatively simple, easy, and inexpensive test that can provide your doctor with a plethora of information, and by looking at CMP test values, your doctor can diagnose a very wide range of possible conditions. In addition, the test is extremely useful in checking up on known conditions. Certain chronic conditions – such as hypertension, kidney disease, and liver disease – are easily monitored with CMP tests. It is also necessary in cases where patients must take medications that have an impact on the functionality of the kidneys or liver. In events where medications begin to have adverse effects on the kidney or liver, a comprehensive metabolic panel interpretation by a physician can be key in determining the next route of treatment to take.

Does My Doctor Think Something Is Wrong With Me If They Order A CMP Test?

Most of the time – probably not. The Comprehensive Metabolic Panel test is a typical blood test ordered alongside physical exams, usually as part of a yearly checkup, or when taking a physical exam to qualify for insurance coverage, enter the military, and many other reasons. It is also used to diagnose an array of fairly minor, controllable conditions – such as high or low blood pressure, or hyper or hypoglycemia. A CMP test is certainly nothing to be alarmed about.

MCH Blood Test

Admin — Thu, 25 Aug 2011 02:20:15 +0000

What is a MCH Blood Test

The MCH blood test, or Mean Corpuscular Hemoglobin blood test, is a blood test carried out to determine the average amount of hemoglobin present in red blood cells found in a blood sample.

Why is a MCH Blood test needed?

An MCH blood test can be used to determine the presence of disorders like those mentioned below.

Hemoglobin is an iron-rich protein used to transport oxygen throughout the blood stream. It is found in heavy concentrations in the red blood cells of all vertebrate animals. It serves to assist the red blood cells in the transport of oxygen from the respiratory organs (such as gills or lungs) to other tissues located throughout the body. Hemoglobin allows the red blood cell to release oxygen into other tissues, which facilitates burning nutrients to create energy so that the organism can live. It also allows the red blood cell to channel carbon dioxide – a byproduct of cellular processes when oxygen is used – back to the respiratory organs, where the carbon dioxide will be released into the environment through the process of breathing. In all mammals, red blood cells are mostly composed of hemoglobin and water. Each molecule of hemoglobin found in a mammalian cell can carry up to four molecules of oxygen each. Variants of hemoglobin exist, even within an individual species, though one is usually more common that others. These variations are the result of genetic mutations, and many of them do not cause any disease or noticeable affect in terms of quality of life. However, some mutant forms of hemoglobin may cause a range of hereditary diseases known as hemoglobinopathies. The most well-known sort of hemoglobinopathic disease is sickle-cell anemia or sickle-cell disease, which was the first human disease that was understood at a molecular level. This sort of disease is most common among patients with ethnic heritages linked to Africa, the Mediterranean basin, and Southeast Asia. Around 7 percent of the world’s population is suspected to carry a gene that causes this sort of disorder. Additionally, some persons suffer from a different sort of inherited blood disorder affecting hemoglobin thalassemia, where a gene mutation or deletion results either in the underproduction of hemoglobin, or production of faulty hemoglobin molecules. Both hemoglobinopathies and thalassemias are suspected to be associated with evolutionary responses to the prevalence of malaria in certain regions. This is because the possession of one or more genes causing the conditions can increase natural resistance to the malaria infection, whereby parasites invade the body’s red blood cells.

The MCH blood test, along with the MCV (Mean Corpuscular Volume) and MCHC (Mean Corpuscular Hemoglobin Concentration) tests, can be used to determine the presence of disorders like those mentioned above. MCH tests are specifically used to detect an iron deficiency or overproduction of hemoglobin. Either can cause a variety of medical issues.

MCH and Hemoglobin

Hemoglobin and MCH

How is the MCH test calculated?

The MCH is calculated by dividing the total mass of hemoglobin found within a sample by the number of red blood cells found in the sample of blood. As such, MCH=(Hgb*10)/RBC. In humans, the normal range for MCH results varies from 27 to 31 picograms per cell. Converted to SI units (femtomol), this range is between 1.68 and 1.92 fmol per cell.

What other tests are needed?

The MCH blood test will usually be performed alongside an MCHC test. This calculates the amount of hemoglobin found in sample of packed red blood cells. This is calculated by dividing the hemoglobin by the hematocrit, which is the concentration of red blood cells found within the blood stream. In humans, MCHC results between 32 to 36 g/dl (or 4.9 to 5.5 mmol/L in SI units) are typical. Sometimes, the MCHC is reported as a fraction. However, the MCHC expressed in g/dl is identical to the mass fraction of hemoglobin found in blood, assuming typical red blood cell density of 1g/ml and negligible amounts of hemoglobin found in plasma. Low MCHC blood test scores indicate microcytic anemias. Macrocytic anemias will not be evident with an MCHC test, as the concentration of hemoglobin remains normal despite larger cell size. High MCHC blood test results tend to indicate hereditary spherocytosis, sickle cell disease, and homozygous hemoglobin C disease.

The MCH blood test also accompanies the MCV test, which is a measure of average red blood cell size. This allows determining whether an anemia is a microcytic anemia (where the MCV will fall below normal ranges), or a macrocytic anemia (where the MCV is above the normal range).

How is the procedure taken?

The MCH blood test is carried out by either using blood from a larger sample obtained when blood is drawn, or a small sample can be taken by pricking one’s finger with a small blood lancet. High MCH blood test results indicates a poor supply of oxygen to the blood. Low MCH blood test scores indicates a low amount of hemoglobin present in cells, possibly due to a lack of iron. This can cause health issues as tissues in the body do not receive adequate amounts of oxygen.

MCH Blood Sample

Levels of MCH in blood

High MCH blood test results are common in patients that:

Have megaloblastic anemia caused by iron and folic acid deficiencies
A family history of anemia
Inability to recoup after severe blood loss
Hyperthyroidism
Liver disorders
Take drugs to counter AIDS
Have negative reactions to anticonvulsant drugs

Low MCH blood test results are common when patients:

Have vitamin C deficiencies
Have copper deficiencies
Are exposed to toxins like lead
Have a family history of sideroblastic anemia or thalassemia

MCH blood test must be taken with other tests

An MCH blood test alone is nearly useless. MCH must almost always be combined with MCV and MCHC blood tests in order to ensure reliable results. In addition, MCH is generally part of a comprehensive panel called a Complete Blood Count, which provides a fairly comprehensive health overview. Among other things, the CBC (Complete Blood Count) test will check for Mean Platelet Volume, Platelet scores, Red Blood Cell Distribution Width, Hgb and Hct counts, and several tests for immune cells.

Special preparation for this test is not required unless otherwise specified by your doctor or healthcare provider. However, it is best to avoid eating fatty foods for up to 12 hours before the test, in order to achieve the most accurate results possible.

CBC Blood Test

Admin — Thu, 25 Aug 2011 02:15:10 +0000

What is a Complete Blood Count (CBC) Blood Test?

A Complete Blood Count, or CBC blood test, is one of the most common blood tests that is usually ordered by a doctor. The goal of the complete blood count test is to determine the concentration of various cellular and intracellular components of the blood. Generally, the CBC blood test is carried out by highly specialized laboratory equipment that that analyzes the various components of blood within a few minutes. Most of the complete blood count consists of metrics concerning the red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets found within the blood stream.

What Method is Used for the CBC Blood Test?

The CBC blood test involves obtaining a few milliliters of blood from the patient (one to three tablespoons’ worth). This can either be done directly, or be sectioned off from a previous sample of blood collected. The blood collection can be done in a variety of clinical settings, such as the doctor’s office, a phlebotomy laboratory, or a hospital.

When obtaining blood, the doctor, nurse, or phlebotomist will sterilize the patient’s skin with alcohol, then insert a needle into the cleansed area to obtain blood from one of the patient’s veins. The healthcare professional taking the blood will generally identify a vein that can be seen through the skin. If no vein can be seen, the healthcare professional will usually palpate the cleansed area to identify a vein that can be felt beneath the skin’s surface. After inserting the needle into the vein, the healthcare professional will use a syringe or vacuumed vial to collect the blood. The sample is then sent to a laboratory for analysis.

A Complete Blood Test

CBC Blood Test

What does the CBC Blood Test Indicate, and What Does It Test For?

The CBC blood test examines the following:

White Blood Cell Count (WBC) – this is the number of white blood cells found in a volume of blood. The normal range for this result is between 4,300 and 10,800 cells per cubic millimeter. This is also known as the leukocyte count.

White Blood Cell Differential Count (WBC) – The white blood count is a composite of several different types of cells. The differential count will break down the number of granulocytes, lymphocytes, monocytes, eosinophils, and basophils that are present, and will present the prevalence of each type as a percentage.

Red Blood Cell Count (RBC) – This is the number of red blood cells in a volume of blood. The normal range varies slightly depending on the equipment being used, but usually ranges between 4.2 to 5.9 million cells/cmm is considered average. This is sometimes called the erythrocyte count, and is expressed in SI units with a normal range of 4.2 to 5.9 x 1012 cells per liter.

Hemoglobin (Hb or Hbn) – The count of hemoglobin found in a volume of blood. Hemoglobin is the protein found in red blood cells that allows the red blood to carry oxygen from the lungs to various body tissues, and also allows the transport of carbon dioxide created by cellular respiration to be carried away from tissues and exhaled. Hemoglobin also gives red blood cells their defining color. The normal range for men is 13 to 18 grams per deciliter, and for women is 12 to 16 grams per deciliter. In SI units, these translate to 8.1 to 11.2 millimoles/liter and 7.4 to 9.9 millimoles/liter respectively.

Hematocrit (Hct) – This is the ratio of the volume of red blood cells relative to the volume of the blood as a whole. The normal range for this result depends on gender. For men, 45 to 52 percent is considered normal, and for women, 37 to 48 percent is considered normal. This is measured by spinning a blood sample in a centrifuge, which causes the red blood cells to pack at the bottom of the tube.

Mean Corpuscular Volume (MCV) – this is the average amount of hemoglobin found in the average red blood cell. This is a calculated (not a tested) value, derived from the measurement of hemoglobin and the red blood cell count. Normal ranges are between 27 to 32 picograms.

Mean Corpuscular Hemoglobin Concentration (MCHC) – this is an average of the concentration of hemoglobin in a given volume of red blood cells. This result is calculated from the hemoglobin measurement and the hematocrit. The normal range is between 32 and 36 percent.

Red Cell Distribution Width (RDW) – measurement of the variability of red cell size and shape. High numbers indicate increased variation in size. The normal range is between 11 to 15.

Platelet count – this measurement is a result of the number of platelets found in a volume of blood. These play a vital role in blood clotting. The normal range is between 150,000 and 400,000/cmm or 150 to 400 x 109/liter.

Mean platelet volume: The average size of platelets in a volume of blood.

Complete Blood Count Examines

Complete Blood Count

What is the CBC Blood Test Used For?

The CBC blood test is used to determine the likelihood of a variety of potential illnesses or chronic health problems that tend to might affect the various blood factors tested above. The CBC test can be used to detect illnesses such as infections, certain cancers, bone marrow problems, anemia, low blood oxygen levels, bleeding disorders, and severe inflammation. The CBC is also quite normal for a doctor to order alongside other tests, such as alongside a liver function panel, or as part of a normal checkup. The CBC test is relatively inexpensive, so it is often employed by healthcare providers as a cost-effective manner to determine if there are any underlying conditions that might avoid detection during a standard examination.

How is a CBC Blood Test Done?

A healthcare professional such as a doctor, nurse, or phlebotomist will cleanse a portion of the skin – usually on the arm, opposite of the elbow – with an alcohol wipe. This sterilizes the skin to prevent infection. They will then survey the area visually or by using their fingers to palpate the area in order to detect a vein. They will then insert a needle into the vein, and draw blood out with a syringe or vacuum test tube.

CEA Blood Test

Admin — Wed, 24 Aug 2011 05:43:36 +0000

What is Carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA)

Carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) is a glycoprotein involved in cell adhesion which health experts use to monitor cancer treatment. CEA is produced during fetal development and is not seen in the blood of healthy adult individuals but is present in individuals with lung carcinoma, breast carcinoma, gastric carcinoma, pancreatic carcinoma, thyroid carcinoma and colorectal carcinoma.

Cancer

Conducting the CEA blood test

The test requires a blood sample from the vein, body fluids or biopsy tissue. After collection of the blood sample, it is subject to centrifuge to obtain blood serum. The CEA test requires 0.6 ml of serum. The minimum required amount of the specimen is 0.5 ml. The instruments that the test requires is a immunoassay system such as Beckman Coulter UniCel DXI 800. The method immunoenzymatic assay the serum, the specifications of the serum is that it should have mild hemolysis and mild lipemia. Other specifications of the sample collected are, to put the serum in a refrigerator away from sunlight and normal temperatures. The usual turnaround time of the test is 3 days, where the analytic time is 1 day. For colon cancer, the CEA blood test is reliable if the patient has produced the protein before treatment.

CEA Blood Test

Why the Test is Performed

A CEA test should be ordered when your symptoms are cancerous. Patients who've been clinically diagnosed with particular types of cancer, a CEA level is additionally assessed both before and after therapy, to guage the achievements of treatment.

CEA is also used as a tumor marker to identify recurrences after surgery and for other forms of cancer.

Types of cancer CEA is evident.

rectum
breast
thyroid
bowel
lung
liver
pancreas
stomach
ovary

Not all cancers produce CEA, though with the CEA blood test and identifying cancer it is difficult and can be useful while monitoring cancer treatment such as colorectal cancer. Cancers may not produce exceptionally high CEA levels, but they produce sufficient levels to ascertain if the cancer treatment is successful after 6 weeks.

CEA Test

List of CEA Genes

CEA belongs to immunoglobulin super family and consists of 29 genes which encode carcinoembryonic antigen-related cell adhesion proteins.
Some of the genes, that humans have are CEACAM1, CEACAM2, CEACAM3, CEACAM4, CEACAM5, CEACAM6, CEACAM7, CEACAM8, CEACAM16, CEACAM19, CEACAM18, CEACAM20, and CEACAM21.

CEA Levels

Monitoring of CEA levels of such patients can be helpful in determining the progress of treatment.

When the CEA levels are high, it means the cancer is in an advanced stage. The CEA level results when low indicate that the cancer is small or in an initial stage. For patients who have undergone cancer surgery, low CEA values suggest than the CEA producing tumor is not existent, and for those who have high CEA values after the surgery, it implies that the cancer is back.

High CEA Levels

If you have a high level of CEA then it may be the result of any of the following:

For normal adults who do not smoke the acceptable limit is less than 2.5 ng/ml, and for those who smoke it is less than 5 ng/ml.
CEA levels that are high before cancer surgery will fall later. If the CEA levels are greater than 20 ng/ml, it means the cancer has already spread through the body.
Most of the cancers increase CEA levels, colon and rectum cancers increase it considerably.
Chemotherapy and radiation treatment also temporarily raise CEA levels.
This test especially works well when we know that the patient produces this protein.

Apart from the cancer other diseases which increase the CEA levels are COPD, cirrhosis and chrons disease.

To determine which part of the body the cancer has spread, check the CEA levels in other body fluids such abdominal fluid for abdomen, fluids in the brain for checking cancer in the brain and spinal cord fluid for checking the cancer in the spinal cord.

ALT Blood Test

Admin — Mon, 22 Aug 2011 11:00:40 +0000

What is the Alanine Aminotransferase Test (ALT)

An Alanine transaminase (ALT) or serum Glutamic-pyruvic transaminase (SGPT) or alanine aminotransferase (ALAT) blood test will measure the amount of enzymes that are in your blood. This test takes place most commonly in the liver and in a part of the kidney, cardiovascular system, muscles as well as pancreas. This test is often ordered in conjunction with a liver panel or liver function test to acknowledge whether or not the liver is diseased or damaged. Low levels are found in the blood but when the liver gets damaged then the test result number will increase. The higher the number the more damaged the liver is, and this test is most often done with other tests, such as the aspartate aminotransferase or aspartate transaminase (AST) test.

ALT Blood Test

Conducting the (ALT) blood test

The doctor or physician will take a sample of your blood from a vein that’s in your arm. The vein may or may not be swollen after they have taken a blood sample and a warm type of compress on the surface of the skin will treat the swollen affect.

Preparing for your test

Liver Panel Test

To prepare for your test

To prepare for the test you should avoid any strenuous physical activity or exercise. Tell your doctor before hand if you are on any other medications that may get in the way or affect the test results. It may be a recommendation that you stop taking those medicines for a couple of days before the test as many natural products can affect the results. If you are pregnant or you think that you might be pregnant then you should consult your doctor about it.

Why the Test is Performed

ALT is often ordered together with AST or as part of a liver panel. AST and ALT are two of the most important tests to identify liver disease or injury. It will discover whether or not the jaundice (pigmentation of the skin) was the result or a blood disorder or disease of the liver. The ALT blood test will keep track of how cholesterol medication also known as statins are affecting the body, as well as the liver.

A doctor will order a ALT Blood test if a patient is experiencing symptoms of a liver disorder the symptoms are listed below

weakness
fatigue
loss of appetite
nausea
hepatitis
vomiting
abdominal swelling
jaundice (pigmentation of the skin)
dark urine
pruritus (itching)

For people who are at an increased risk for liver disease a doctor will order a ALT test by it self or along with other tests. Some examples include:

if one had recent liver damage
if one is has alcoholism
if you had a viral hepatitis
if you experienced lead poisoning
if you have had a reaction from a drug
exposure to necrosis
exposure to carbon
treated for shock

ALT & Liver Enzymes Test

Liver Enzymes Test

ALT levels and ALT test results

In many forms of liver diseases, the ALT level is actually higher compared to AST, and also the AST/ALT percentage is going to be low. There are several exceptions. The AST/ALT percentage is generally elevated in alcoholic related hepatitis, cirrhosis, along with muscle damage.

ALT is frequently carried out together with a examination for AST or together with a liver panel. For additional information about ALT results within relation to its other liver tests, view the Liver Panel page.

Normal ALT Levels

The normal range for the ALT blood test is between:

Males: 10-40 units per liter (U/L)
Females: 7-35 units per liter (U/L)

Mild ALT Levels

If you were tested and received a mild level of ALT, then it may be the result of the following:

mononucleosis
hepatitis
alcohol abuse
an overdose of acetaminophen (Tylenol)
growth spurts
fatty acids in the liver
medicines, including statins, antibiotics, narcotics and chemotherapy
Long-term diseases that affect the liver, such as cirrhosis

High ALT Levels

If you have a high level of ALT then it may be the result of any of the following:

liver damage
acute hepatitis
virus infections
ischemia (decreased blood flow)
tumor (necrosis)
lead poisoning
drug reactions
carbon tetrachloride

An ALT blood test is good to take every so often, especially if you have experienced bodily symptoms that you are unsure of.
There are certain things that will affect your test, such as prescription or nonprescription medicine, natural products, excessive exercise, injections in muscles or any recent type of surgery.

CA 125 Blood Test

Admin — Wed, 17 Aug 2011 00:42:23 +0000

What is CA 125?

CA 125 or (cancer antigen 125 or carbohydrate antigen 125) is also known as MUC16 or mucin 16. MUC16 is part of the mucin family glycoproteins and can detect ovarian cancer by performing a CA 125 blood test. CA 125 antigens are proteins which are present on the surface of ovarian cancer cells which show their presence in the blood stream after release from the cell. The test is to measure antigen count in the blood stream. Other conditions that raise the levels of CA 125 antigens are cirrhosis of the liver, types of cancer, endometriosis and pelvic inflammation. Change in blood levels can also be during menstruation and pregnancy.

CA 125 Blood Test

Conducting the CA 125 blood test

Laboratory procedure for CA 125 is similar to all other tests. Collection of blood sample is from the vein of the arm, into a syringe or a vial. Before that one has to tie an elastic band around the arm, as this accumulated blood in the region. After collection, cotton or gauze pads cover the region. There are no risks associated with the condition, except for little bruise and pain for few hours. All this feels like an easy pin prick. The medicines that treat cancer and surgery of the belly affect the test.

CA 125 Test

Why the Test is Performed

A patient who is under ovarian cancer treatment undergoes periodical testing. This is because the CA 125 test is a marker for the re occurrence of cancer and the extent of success from the ongoing treatment.

Other symptoms that raise the levels of CA 125 antigens are:

cirrhosis of the liver
types of cancer
endometriosis
pelvic inflammation
menstruation
pregnancy

Performing the CA 125 Blood Test

Performing a series of tests gives comprehension on the rate of growth. It is highly essential to conduct similar assay through out the series. The test requires minimum volume of 0.6 ml from the patient. One requires 0.5 ml of the 1.6 ml in the collection for processing. The blood serum undergoes an automated immunoassay whose results are not markers of the disease. While this is one of the methods, there are a number of other methods to detect the presence of the protein in the blood.

Elevated CA 125 Levels

CA 125

Elevated CA 125 Levels

Levels of CA 125 in the blood stream are detrimental of the origin of cancer. Very high levels signify that the release is from the ovarian surface. This does not mean that other organ cancers do not exhibit these antigens, they do show CA-125 antigens, but at lower levels. Depending on the levels, the spread rate during metastasis cancer deciphers.

What is the normal range for CA 125?

Test results of 35 units per ml come under elevation scores, which is the normal range to be in. The test classifies as true and false. The former identifies the patient to be suffering from ovarian cancer and the later declares an absence.

Differences between CA 125 Blood Tests

There are two types of CA 125 tests. One is the first generation and the other is the second generation. The second show variations in results from day to day while the first display consistently. Another difference is that the second tend to show slightly higher results.

Effectiveness of the CA 125 Blood Test

The test detects only 50% of stage 1 patients. Chances of detection increase to 80% in the stage 2, 3, and 4. Coupling the test with the complete blood count test (CBC) gives a clear understanding as rise in the blood stream can also be due to other causes. Another factor is that the test does not differentiate between cancerous and non cancerous lumps. Thus, deduction needs performing other tests too.

RDW Blood Test

Admin — Mon, 15 Aug 2011 10:03:24 +0000

What is Red blood cell distribution width (RDW)

The RDW blood test is a quantitative analysis of variance in red blood cells (RBC) width where RDW stands for red blood cell distribution width or RCDW. It is also apart of the complete blood count (CBC) test. If the test shows high results, it implies that the person may be suffering from iron deficiency or may be having anemia. RDW test results are mostly used along with the mean corpuscular volume (MCV) to determine if one is suffering from anemia. The red blood cells size are in the range of 6-8μm for a normal person. Any variation in this suggests that the person is suffering from disorders. The normal range for RDW results is 11 to 15%, variations from this implies that there is something wrong. When the results suggest anemia, on conducting further investigation the exact cause can be found. In such scenarios, the practitioner suggests corpuscular volume test.

RDW Blood Test

Conducting the RDW blood test

Conducting the RDW test requires a blood sample. It would be collected from a vein either near the inside elbow or back of the hand. For taking the sample for infants and young children, they poke with a needle in the finger or heel. One can get these tests done as a part of the complete blood test, which can be done at most laboratories. In such scenarios, the white blood cell count is also associated with it. It is extremely crucial that people understand the requirement of the test as they grow older. Research shows that high RDW rates are fatal to people over the age of 45. Thus, it is advisable that they get the RDW tested regularly on a yearly basis to avoid any risk factors.

RDW Test

Why the Test is Performed

With RDW blood analysis one can determine, if the cause for anemia is multiple or a single cause. Vitamin B12 deficiency indicates normal RDW but manifests in the blood as large cell anemia, whereas iron deficiency has a high RDW and variation in size of red blood cells. When a person has both vitamin B12 and iron deficiencies, they will have both small and large cells which drastically elevates the final results of the RDW blood test. Anisocytosis is the situation of the patient with varying sizes of cells. With RDW value, one can determine diseases such as cancer, cardiovascular disorders, anemia, thalassemia and malnutrition. Apart from this, one has to understand that there are more than 400 types of anemia which have to be tested further to deduce the exact illness.

Calculating the RDW Value

To calculate the RDW value, divide standard deviation of MCV by mean MCV and multiply with 100. Standard deviation in this case is the red blood cells number present in the blood smear. RDW is not the width of the red blood cells but the width of the volume or the distribution.
RDW = (Standard deviation of MCV ÷ mean MCV) × 100.

MCV and RDW

MCV (mean corpuscular volume) and RDW (red blood cell distribution width) together determine the disease the patient is suffering. When both values are high, it might be folate deficiency, Pre-leukemia associates with high MCV and normal RDW and Normal MCV and high RDW signifies B12 deficiency. When both are normal or if MCV is low and RDW is normal it might be a chronic disease, and when both are low it is iron deficiency. In some extreme cases, RDW count is the predicament of mortality, which is in cases of cardiovascular disease problems and cancer. Higher rates are more dangerous than the lower levels.

Fasting Blood Test

Admin — Sun, 14 Aug 2011 14:20:59 +0000

Fasting For A Blood Test

For some blood tests, patients should not consume any food or drink, as these tests are extremely sensitive to any food consumption. Depending on the test, it may require patients to fast 10 hours to 14 hours. One can have water during fasting, for some tests even black coffee and tea can be taken. If the patient is on a medication, he can continue to do so for most of the tests, but for some tests, he should not have them, so it is always a smart idea to consult a physician or the laboratory.

Fasting Blood Test

Why do you have to fast before a Blood Test?

The products from food digestion may pass on to the blood stream by having any food or beverages before a fasting blood test. The blood properties before and after consuming a meal differ, so one has to follow the fasting rules perfectly for having a successful fasting blood test. Food consumption affects glucose levels, lipid levels such as triglyceride, (LDL) and (HDL) and does not provide accurate results. Many of these also change from time to time. Obtaining exact results largely depends on the patient's cooperation with the doctors and physicians and with it have appropriate medication.

Fasting For Blood Test

Some of the common tests that require fasting are:

Cholesterol blood test
Glucose blood test
Vitamin blood test
Triglyceride blood test

Fasting Blood Tests

Cholesterol Blood Test

American Heart Association recommends all people who are 20 years and above to have a cholesterol test every 5 years. The patient has to be on a fast for at least 12 hours to have this test. This test can be done at a laboratory or home using cholesterol monitoring device. With this test one can analyze lipoprotein panel profile of a person that details LDL or bad cholesterol, HDL or good cholesterol, total cholesterol and triglycerides. People with a total cholesterol of 200 mg/DL or more and good cholesterol of 40mg/DL or lower should have this test frequently until they get these in acceptable limits.

Glucose levels Blood Test

To check the glucose levels of the patient, fasting blood sugar test, postprandial glucose test, glucose tolerance test and random glucose test have to be done. This test is commonly used for testing diabetes or pre-diabetes. Doctors advise patients having diabetes to get this test done regularly. For fasting blood sugar test one should be on fast for 12 hours. A level of 70 to 100 mg/DL is normal anything more than that may need medical attention, as it may be pre-diabetes or diabetes.

Vitamin Blood Test

For vitamin tests, one needs fasting of around 8 hours to 12 hours. There are some things, which one has to avoid for having a successful blood test. Chewing gum with sugar and consuming any liquid other than water is an absolute no-no. One should also refrain from smoking prior to having a fasting blood test. Working out or exercises should also be avoided before a fasting blood test. For cholesterol tests, it is better if one can avoid consuming meat, eggs and other high fat foods over the week, though they do not drastically change the net result of the fasting blood test.

MCV Blood Test

Admin — Sun, 14 Aug 2011 03:06:46 +0000

What is Mean corpuscular volume (MCV)

MCV, which stands for, mean corpuscular volume or mean cell volume, is an analysis of red blood cell volume (RBC). This test is commonly a part of the complete blood count test (CBC) or can be taken independent of the complete blood count test. Doctors recommend the MCV test to patients who they suspect to have anemia, thalassemia, vitamin B12 deficiency and iron deficiency or who suffer from them. This test is essential for patients having normal hemoglobin content but still suffer from anemia.

MCV Blood Test

Conducting the MCV blood test

To conduct an MCV test, a laboratory technician collects blood sample from the vein of the patient at the back of hand or the inside elbow. One of the risks with such blood test is as veins are not unique and vary in size, while obtaining a blood sample one has to consider this. Other risks include excessive bleeding, infections, hematoma and fainting or feeling light leaded. When one considers all the risks with giving a MCV blood sample and getting the test complete, it is always better have them in a reputable laboratory and on consulting a doctor. This ensures safety and right guidance.

MCV Test

Why the Test is Performed

Similar to other blood tests, the main intention of this test as well is to check if the patient is suffering from any disease. When the MCV value is either high or low, it indicates the patient having an ailment. The red blood cells are larger than the normal size, when the MCV value is high, and if the MCV value is low, the red blood cells are smaller than the normal. Red blood cells carry oxygen from the lungs to cells; when they are abnormal it does affect one’s health.

MCV Ranges

For patients with anemia (or a low RBC), the MCV value determines if the anemia is microcytic, normocytic or macrocytic. When the MCV value is below the normal range, it is microcytic when in the normal range it is normocytic and when above the normal range, it is macrocytic anemia. The MCV value is a division of erythrocyte volume fraction by count of red blood cell, and its unit of measure is femtolitres. The normal range of MCV is 80 to 100 FL. The MCV results have to be in tandem RBC morphology, any deviation in these values indicates technician error or faulty equipment.

Below are a list of symptoms you may experience due to abnormal RBC levels.

Anemia Symptoms

Symptoms that identify anemia are:

insomnia
leg cramps
difficulty in concentration
shortness of breath
headaches
pale skin
dizziness
rapid heartbeat
easy fatigue
loss of energy

Anemia B12 Deficiency

For patients suffering from iron deficiency anemia, they would have a strange crave for food such as ice, paper or dirt and are prone to soreness and cracks of the mouth.

Symptoms of B12 deficiency anemia are:

pins and needles at the hands and feet

losing sense of touch

difficulty in walking

clumsiness

stiffness in arms and legs

dementia

A RBC Virus caused by Anemia

Red Blood Cell Virus

MCV Ranges

When the MCV values are not normal, it is probably anemia. The value of MCV establishes the cause of anemia.

microcytic anemia (MCV below normal range)
normocytic anemia (MCV within normal range)
macrocytic anemia (MCV above normal range)

Normal MCV Levels

Adults

Men over 18 years old: 78 - 98 um3
Women over 18 years old: 78 - 98 um3

Children

Newborn: 95 to 121 um3
Newborn to puberty: 3 to 13 mm/hr
6 months to 2 years: 70 to 86 um3
Boys between 12 to 18 years old: 78 to 98 um3
Girls between 12 to 18 years old: 78 to 102 um3

Note: um3 = (cubic micrometers)

Low MCV Levels

RBCs are smaller (microcytic) and is likely microcytic anemia which is linked to a haemoglobin disorder such as thalassaemias, vitamin B12 deficiency, iron deficiency, chronic disease, bone marrow disorders, pregnancy or anaemia due to blood cell destruction.

Why are the MCV Levels Low?

There are numerous possible explanations precisely why the MCV level could end up being low. One explanation is due to lead poisoning. Long term kidney failure may also increase the risk for MCV level being too low. A lengthy decrease of iron within the body could cause lower MCV levels. Amemia could also result in a very low MCV level. Anemia is known as a symptom in which there is definitely an abnormally low quantity of hemoglobin in the blood.

High MCV Levels

When the MCV is above the normal range it is likely macrocytic anemia and may be linked to iron deficiency, bone marrow abnormalities, liver disease, chronic lung disease, alcoholism, nutritional deficiencies.

Why are the MCV Levels High?

There are several feasible explanations why the MCV level may be too high. One particular explanation is due to liver disease. The liver is the most significant body organ which is accountable for blocking damaging chemical substances, generating essential chemicals for the body, along with other essential capabilities. Cirrhosis is a form of disease that damages the liver and could cause higher MCV levels. A different reason for a higher MCV level is alcohol abuse.