Pathology Laboratory

 Pathology Laboratory Test List

Complete Blood Count Test:

A Complete Blood Count (CBC) is a common blood test that provides information about the cellular components of your blood. It measures various parameters, including:

1.             Red Blood Cells (RBC): This measures the number of red blood cells in your blood. It can help diagnose anemia or other blood disorders.

2.        Hemoglobin (Hb): Hemoglobin is a protein that carries oxygen in your red blood cells. Low hemoglobin levels can indicate anemia.

3.           Hematocrit (Hct): This measures the percentage of your blood volume occupied by red blood cells. It can also help detect anemia.

4.             White Blood Cells (WBC): This measures the number of white blood cells, which are important for fighting infections. High or low levels may indicate various conditions.

5.            Platelets (Plt): Platelets are responsible for blood clotting. This measures the number of platelets in your blood. High or low levels can affect clotting ability.

6.         Mean Corpuscular Volume (MCV): It measures the average size of your red blood cells. It helps classify anemias into different types.

7.          Mean Corpuscular Hemoglobin (MCH): This measures the average amount of hemoglobin per red blood cell. It helps evaluate different types of anemia.

8.         Mean Corpuscular Hemoglobin Concentration (MCHC): This measures the concentration of hemoglobin in your red blood cells. It can aid in diagnosing certain types of anemia.

9.          Red Cell Distribution Width (RDW): This measures the variation in size of your red blood cells. It helps evaluate different types of anemia.

10.      Differential White Blood Cell Count: It provides the proportions of different types of white blood cells, such as neutrophils, lymphocytes, monocytes, eosinophils, and basophils. It helps in diagnosing and monitoring various conditions.

A CBC is a valuable tool for diagnosing and monitoring a wide range of conditions, including infections, anemia, leukemia, and other blood disorders. It provides important insights into your overall health and helps guide further investigations if necessary.

Prothrombin Time (PT)

Prothrombin Time (PT) is a clinical test that measures the time it takes for your blood to clot. It evaluates the functionality of the clotting factors in your blood, specifically the extrinsic pathway, which involves factors such as prothrombin and factors VII, X, V, and II.

During the PT test, a blood sample is mixed with a substance that triggers the clotting process. The time it takes for the blood to clot is measured and compared to a normal reference range. The results are typically reported as the International Normalized Ratio (INR).

The PT test is commonly used to monitor the effectiveness of anticoagulant medications, such as warfarin, and to assess liver function. It can help diagnose and monitor conditions such as bleeding disorders, vitamin K deficiency, liver disease, and the effectiveness of anticoagulant therapy.

It is important to note that the PT test evaluates the extrinsic pathway of clotting and does not assess the intrinsic pathway, which involves factors such as VIII, IX, XI, and XII. To assess the intrinsic pathway, the Activated Partial Thromboplastin Time (APTT) test is performed in conjunction with the PT test.

If the PT results are prolonged or abnormal, further investigation may be necessary to determine the underlying cause and appropriate treatment options.

Basic Metabolic Panel (BMP) clinical Test:  

A Basic Metabolic Panel (BMP) is a clinical test that provides information about the levels of various chemicals and electrolytes in your blood. It typically includes the measurement of the following parameters:

1.  Blood Glucose : This measures the concentration of sugar (glucose) in your blood. It is used to assess blood sugar control and screen for diabetes.

2.      Electrolytes:

·      Sodium (Na+) : Sodium helps maintain fluid balance in your body. Abnormal levels can indicate dehydration, kidney problems, or hormonal imbalances.

·    Potassium (K+): Potassium is essential for proper nerve and muscle function. High or low levels can affect heart function and require medical attention.

·     Chloride (Cl-): Chloride works together with sodium to maintain fluid balance. Abnormal levels can be associated with kidney or respiratory disorders.

·     Bicarbonate (HCO3-): Bicarbonate is involved in maintaining acid-base balance in the body. It is useful in evaluating kidney and lung function.

3.      Blood Urea Nitrogen (BUN): BUN is a waste product of protein metabolism that is filtered by the kidneys. Elevated levels may indicate kidney dysfunction or dehydration.

4.  Creatinine: Creatinine is another waste product that reflects kidney function. High levels can suggest impaired kidney function.

5.   Calcium: Calcium is essential for bone health, nerve function, and muscle contraction. Abnormal levels can be indicative of various conditions, including kidney disorders, hormone imbalances, or bone diseases.

The BMP is a commonly ordered test used to evaluate kidney function, electrolyte imbalances, and assess general metabolic status. It provides valuable information about your body's overall health and can aid in diagnosing and monitoring conditions such as diabetes, kidney disease, electrolyte imbalances, and acid-base disorders.

It's important to note that the specific components included in a BMP may vary slightly depending on the laboratory or healthcare provider, as some may include additional tests such as liver function tests or other specific markers.

Comprehensive Metabolic Panel (CMP) clinical Test: 

A Comprehensive Metabolic Panel (CMP) is a clinical test that provides a broader assessment of your body's metabolic and organ function. It typically includes all the components of a Basic Metabolic Panel (BMP) along with additional parameters. The CMP includes the measurement of the following:

·    Blood Glucose: Measures the concentration of sugar (glucose) in your blood, used to assess blood sugar control and screen for diabetes.

·         Electrolytes:

• Sodium (Na+): Helps maintain fluid balance in the body.
• Potassium (K+): Essential for proper nerve and muscle function.
• Chloride (Cl-): Works together with sodium to maintain fluid balance.
• Bicarbonate (HCO3-): Involved in maintaining acid-base balance in the body.

·         Blood Urea Nitrogen (BUN): Reflects kidney function and protein metabolism.

·         Creatinine: Reflects kidney function and waste product clearance.

·         Calcium: Important for bone health, nerve function, and muscle contraction.

·         Liver Function Tests:

• Albumin: Measures the main protein produced by the liver.
• Total Protein: Measures the total amount of protein in the blood.
• Alanine Aminotransferase (ALT): Assesses liver function and can indicate liver damage.
• Aspartate Aminotransferase (AST): Another marker of liver function and liver damage.
• Alkaline Phosphatase (ALP): Evaluates liver and bone health.

·         Kidney Function Tests:

• Blood Uric Acid: Measures the level of uric acid in the blood, which can be associated with gout or kidney problems.
• Blood Urea Nitrogen (BUN): Reflects kidney function and protein metabolism.
• Creatinine: Reflects kidney function and waste product clearance.

The CMP provides a comprehensive overview of your metabolic and organ health. It helps assess kidney function, liver function, electrolyte balance, blood sugar control, and other aspects of your body's metabolism. It is commonly used to screen for, diagnose, and monitor conditions such as diabetes, kidney disease, liver disease, electrolyte imbalances, and metabolic

disorders.

It's important to note that the specific components included in a CMP may vary slightly depending on the laboratory or healthcare provider, as some may include additional tests or exclude certain parameters based on individual needs or preferences.

Lipid Panel Clinical Test: 

A Lipid Panel, also known as a Lipid Profile, is a clinical test that measures various types of lipids (fats) and cholesterol in your blood. It provides important information about your cardiovascular health and risk of developing heart disease. A typical Lipid Panel includes the measurement of the following parameters:

1.    Total Cholesterol: This measures the total amount of cholesterol in your blood, including both high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol (often referred to as "good" cholesterol) and low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol (often referred to as "bad" cholesterol).

2.   HDL Cholesterol: High-density lipoprotein cholesterol is considered beneficial because it helps remove LDL cholesterol from the bloodstream and is associated with a lower risk of heart disease.

3.  LDL Cholesterol: Low-density lipoprotein cholesterol is considered harmful because it can accumulate in the arteries and contribute to the development of plaque, increasing the risk of heart disease.

4.    Triglycerides: Triglycerides are a type of fat that circulates in the blood. Elevated triglyceride levels are associated with an increased risk of heart disease.

5.   Non-HDL Cholesterol: Non-HDL cholesterol is calculated by subtracting HDL cholesterol from the total cholesterol. It provides an estimate of the amount of harmful cholesterol (LDL cholesterol and other atherogenic particles) in the blood.

The Lipid Panel helps assess your lipid profile and provides valuable information about your cardiovascular health. It can help identify individuals at risk of developing heart disease, guide treatment decisions, and monitor the effectiveness of lipid-lowering therapies. High levels of LDL cholesterol and triglycerides, along with low levels of HDL cholesterol, are associated with an increased risk of atherosclerosis, heart attacks, and stroke.

Interpreting the Lipid Panel results involves considering other risk factors such as age, gender, blood pressure, smoking status, and family history of heart disease. Based on the results, lifestyle modifications (diet, exercise) and/or medication may be recommended to manage cholesterol levels and

reduce the risk of cardiovascular events. It's important to note that fasting for a certain period (usually 9-12 hours) is often required before the Lipid Panel test to obtain accurate results. Additionally, some healthcare providers may include additional markers, such as calculated or direct LDL cholesterol, to further assess cardiovascular risk.

 Liver Panel (LP) clinical Test: 

A Liver Panel, also known as a Liver Function Test (LFT) or Hepatic Panel, is a clinical test that provides information about the health and function of your liver. It assesses various markers and enzymes associated with liver function and the integrity of liver cells. A typical Liver Panel includes the measurement of the following parameters:

·     Alanine Aminotransferase (ALT): ALT is an enzyme primarily found in liver cells. Elevated levels indicate liver damage or injury, which could be caused by conditions such as hepatitis, fatty liver disease, or medication toxicity.

·     Aspartate Aminotransferase (AST): AST is an enzyme found in several organs, including the liver. Elevated levels can indicate liver damage, but AST can also be elevated in conditions affecting the heart, muscles, or other organs.

·     Alkaline Phosphatase (ALP): ALP is an enzyme found in various tissues, including the liver, bile ducts, and bones. Elevated ALP levels may indicate liver or bile duct disease, bone disorders, or certain medications.

·     Total Bilirubin: Bilirubin is a yellow pigment produced when red blood cells are broken down. Total bilirubin measures the combined levels of direct (conjugated) and indirect (unconjugated) bilirubin. Elevated levels may suggest liver dysfunction or obstruction of the bile ducts.

·     Albumin: Albumin is a protein produced by the liver. It helps maintain fluid balance in the body. Low albumin levels can indicate liver disease or malnutrition.

·     Total Protein: Total protein measures the total amount of protein in the blood, including albumin and other proteins. Abnormal levels can be indicative of liver or kidney disease, malnutrition, or other conditions.

·      Gamma-Glutamyl Transferase (GGT): GGT is an enzyme found in various organs, including the liver and bile ducts. Elevated GGT levels can be associated with liver disease, alcohol consumption, or certain medications.

The Liver Panel helps evaluate liver function, detect liver diseases (such as hepatitis, cirrhosis, or fatty liver), monitor the progression of liver diseases, assess liver toxicity caused by medications or other substances, and evaluate overall liver health. It provides valuable information to healthcare providers in diagnosing and managing liver-related conditions.

It's important to note that the Liver Panel is often interpreted in conjunction with other clinical information and additional tests, such as imaging studies or viral hepatitis tests, to determine the underlying cause of liver dysfunction and guide appropriate treatment decisions.

Thyroid Function Tests: 

Thyroid Function Tests are a group of clinical tests that assess the functioning of the thyroid gland, which plays a crucial role in regulating metabolism, growth, and development in the body. These tests measure the levels of thyroid hormones and thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) in the blood. The common thyroid function tests include:

1.      Thyroid-Stimulating Hormone (TSH): TSH is produced by the pituitary gland and stimulates the thyroid gland to produce thyroid hormones. Elevated TSH levels can indicate an underactive thyroid (hypothyroidism), while low TSH levels can suggest an overactive thyroid (hyperthyroidism).

2.      Free Thyroxine (FT4): FT4 is the active form of thyroid hormone in the blood. It helps regulate metabolism in the body. Abnormal levels of FT4 can indicate thyroid dysfunction.

3.      Total or Free Triiodothyronine (T3): T3 is another active form of thyroid hormone. While T4 is converted into T3 in the body, measuring T3 levels can provide additional information about thyroid function.

In certain cases, additional thyroid function tests may be conducted, including :

4.      Thyroid Antibodies: These tests measure the presence of antibodies that can target the thyroid gland, such as thyroid peroxidase antibodies (TPOAb) and thyroglobulin antibodies (TgAb). Elevated antibody levels suggest autoimmune thyroid disorders, such as Hashimoto's thyroiditis or Graves' disease.

5.      Reverse Triiodothyronine (rT3): rT3 is an inactive form of thyroid hormone. Elevated levels may indicate a disruption in the conversion of T4 to the active T3 form.

Thyroid function tests help diagnose and monitor thyroid disorders, including hypothyroidism, hyperthyroidism, and autoimmune thyroid diseases. They also aid in adjusting thyroid hormone replacement therapy dosage and assessing the effectiveness of treatment.

It's important to note that the interpretation of thyroid function tests requires clinical evaluation, taking into account the patient's symptoms, medical history, physical examination, and other laboratory findings. Additional imaging studies or specialized tests may be recommended to further evaluate thyroid function and diagnose specific thyroid conditions.

Urinalysis (Urine Test) : 

Urinalysis, also known as a urine test, is a clinical test that examines the physical, chemical, and microscopic properties of urine. It provides valuable information about various aspects of your overall health and can aid in the diagnosis and monitoring of certain medical conditions. A urinalysis typically involves the following components:

1.      Visual Examination: The urine sample is visually inspected for color, clarity, and any abnormal characteristics such as cloudiness, blood, or unusual odor. These observations can provide initial clues about potential health issues.

2.      Chemical Analysis: Chemical tests are performed to measure the levels of certain substances in the urine, including:

·         pH : Determines the acidity or alkalinity of the urine.

·         Specific Gravity: Evaluates the concentration of urine, reflecting hydration status.

·         Protein: Detects the presence of abnormal amounts of protein, which may indicate kidney disease or other conditions.

·         Glucose: Identifies the presence of sugar in the urine, potentially indicating diabetes or other glucose metabolism disorders.

·         Ketones: Detects the presence of ketones, which may suggest uncontrolled diabetes or other metabolic abnormalities.

·         Bilirubin: Evaluates the presence of bilirubin, a waste product that may indicate liver disease or other conditions.

·         Urobilinogen: Measures the breakdown product of bilirubin, providing information about liver and bile duct function.

·         Nitrites and Leukocyte Esterase: Detects the presence of bacteria or white blood cells, suggesting a urinary tract infection.

3. Microscopic Examination: A small portion of the urine sample is analyzed under a microscope to identify and quantify various elements, including:

·         Red Blood Cells (RBCs): Abnormal levels may indicate bleeding or kidney disease.

·         White Blood Cells (WBCs): Elevated levels can indicate infection or inflammation.

·         Epithelial Cells: Their presence can provide insights into the health of the urinary tract.

·         Crystals: The formation of certain crystals can suggest conditions such as kidney stones or metabolic disorders.

·         Casts: Abnormal casts may indicate kidney damage or disease.

Urinalysis is a commonly performed test that can assist in the diagnosis and monitoring of urinary tract infections, kidney disorders, diabetes, liver disease, and other systemic conditions. It is often a part of routine health check-ups and can be useful in guiding further investigations or treatment plans.

It's important to note that urinalysis results should be interpreted in the context of other clinical information and the individual's symptoms. In some cases, additional urine tests or other diagnostic tests may be necessary for a comprehensive evaluation.

Blood Sugar Test (BST): 

A Blood Sugar Test (BST), also known as a blood glucose test, is a clinical test that measures the concentration of glucose (sugar) in your blood. It is commonly used to evaluate blood sugar control and screen for or diagnose diabetes mellitus. There are different types of blood sugar tests:

1.      Fasting Blood Sugar Test (FBS) : This test is performed after fasting for at least 8 hours. It measures the blood glucose level in a fasting state and helps diagnose diabetes or identify individuals at risk of developing diabetes.

2.      Random Blood Sugar Test: This test involves checking blood glucose levels at any time, regardless of when you last ate. It is often used to assess blood sugar levels during the day, diagnose diabetes, or monitor diabetes management.

3.      Oral Glucose Tolerance Test (OGTT): This test is usually performed to diagnose gestational diabetes during pregnancy or to assess impaired glucose tolerance. It involves fasting for a certain period, followed by consuming a specific glucose drink. Blood sugar levels are then measured at specific time intervals to evaluate how the body processes glucose.

4.      Hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) Test: This test measures the average blood sugar level over the past 2-3 months. It provides an indication of long-term blood sugar control and is commonly used in the diagnosis and management of diabetes.

Blood sugar tests help assess blood glucose levels, screen for diabetes, monitor diabetes treatment effectiveness, and identify individuals at risk of developing diabetes. Elevated blood sugar levels may indicate diabetes mellitus, while low blood sugar levels can be associated with hypoglycemia.

Interpretation of blood sugar test results depends on various factors, including the specific type of test, the timing of the test, and the individual's clinical context. It's important to consult with a healthcare

provider to understand and interpret the results accurately and determine the appropriate course of action or further testing if necessary. Regular monitoring of blood sugar levels is crucial for individuals with diabetes to manage their condition effectively.