Blood tests are an essential medical procedure that can help diagnose many diseases. Some are common, and some are rare. It’s worth knowing about the different types of blood tests, so you know what to expect when your Harrison, New Jersey doctor orders one for you or when you go to the lab yourself. What’s important is finding the best Harrison laboratory test center.
Complete Blood Count (CBC)
This is a test that tells how many red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets you have in your body at this moment. CBCs also measure hemoglobin levels and hematocrit levels – how much of your total volume of red blood cells is liquid versus solid.
The average person should have a nice balance between the two amounts: 50% on either side of 50%. If someone has more red blood cells than average, they might be anemic. If someone has fewer red blood cells than average, they might be suffering from a form of leukemia.
Serum Protein Electrophoresis
This test checks the levels of different proteins in your bloodstream. Some proteins are essential for fighting infection, and others are essential for blood clotting. Abnormal protein levels can signify certain diseases, such as multiple myeloma.
Comprehensive Metabolic PanelThis blood test panel looks at how your body processes different nutrients. It includes tests for sugar (blood glucose), protein, liver function, and kidney function. Abnormal test results might indicate a problem with any of these organs.
Basic Metabolic PanelThis blood test panel measures some of the same things as the comprehensive metabolic panel, but it doesn’t include liver or kidney function tests. It might be a good choice if your doctor only wants to check on a specific organ.
Thyroid Panel
This blood test panel measures the amount of thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) in your bloodstream. The pituitary gland produces TSH, and it tells the thyroid gland how much thyroid hormone to make. Abnormal levels of TSH can be a sign that you have a thyroid disorder.
Lipid Profile
This blood test measures the levels of different fats in your blood. Generally, abnormal results might indicate a problem with your cholesterol or triglyceride levels. This test is often done as part of a heart health evaluation.
Cardiac Biomarkers
Cardiac biomarkers are molecules released into the bloodstream when the heart muscle is damaged. These biomarkers can diagnose a heart attack, and they can be vital for monitoring the heart’s health. Some of the most common cardiac biomarkers include troponin and creatine kinase.
Blood is drawn from a vein in your arm. A tourniquet (a band that tightens around your arm) may help the blood flow more quickly. Once the blood is collected, it is sent to a lab. The test results will show the levels of different cardiac biomarkers in your blood.
Knowing about the different blood tests is essential, especially if you’re scheduled to have one done. The most common type of blood test is the CBC, which measures red blood cells, white blood cell and platelet levels, and hemoglobin and hematocrit levels. Other standard blood tests include serum protein electrophoresis, comprehensive metabolic panel, basic metabolic panel, thyroid panel, and lipid profile. Most blood tests can help diagnose or monitor a disease or condition.
