BIOCHEMISTRY TESTING PARAMETERS

Diagnosing and monitoring various health conditions by analyzing blood and body fluids.

ADENOSINE DEAMINASE

Purpose of testing: To help detect or rule out a Mycobacterium tuberculosis infection in pleural fluid, assisting in the diagnosis of tuberculosis. It is rarely used for detecting the infection in other body fluids such as peritoneal fluid or cerebrospinal fluid (CSF).
When to Get Tested? When a doctor suspects tuberculosis in a patient experiencing chest pain, coughing, and/or difficulty breathing.
Sample Collection: A volume of pleural fluid or other body fluids collected by a doctor.
Test Preparation: None required.

ALP (ALKALINE PHOSPHATASE)

Purpose of testing: To screen for or monitor treatment for liver or bone disorders.
When to Get Tested? As part of liver function tests or when symptoms of liver or bone disorders are present.
Sample Collection: A blood sample taken from a vein in the arm.
Test Preparation: Fasting is preferred but not required.

AMYLASE

Purpose of testing: To evaluate pancreatic function and diagnose pancreatitis.
When to Get Tested? When experiencing symptoms such as severe abdominal pain, nausea, or vomiting.
Sample Collection: A blood sample taken from a vein in the arm.
Test Preparation: None.

CREATININE

Purpose of testing: To assess kidney function and monitor kidney disease treatment.
When to Get Tested? As part of routine blood tests, or when symptoms suggest kidney disease.
Sample Collection: A blood sample from a vein in the arm and/or a 24-hour urine sample.
Test Preparation: None.

CRP (C-REACTIVE PROTEIN)

Purpose of testing: To detect inflammation, determine its severity, and monitor response to treatment.
When to Get Tested? When symptoms of inflammatory disorders, autoimmune diseases, or infections are present.
Sample Collection: A blood sample from a vein in the arm.
Test Preparation: None.

FERRITIN

Purpose of testing: To assess iron storage levels in the body.
When to Get Tested? When a doctor suspects iron deficiency or overload.
Sample Collection: A blood sample from a vein in the arm.
Test Preparation: 12-hour fasting is preferred.

GLUCOSE

Purpose of testing: To determine blood glucose levels, screen for diabetes, and monitor hypoglycemia.
When to Get Tested? If experiencing symptoms of high or low blood glucose or as part of diabetes monitoring.
Sample Collection: A blood sample from a vein in the arm or a drop of blood from a finger prick.
Test Preparation: Fasting for 8 hours is generally recommended, but diabetic patients may have both fasting and post-meal tests.

HbA1C (HEMOGLOBIN A1C)

Purpose of testing: To monitor diabetes management and assist in diagnosing type 2 diabetes.
When to Get Tested? At least twice a year for diabetic patients.
Sample Collection: A blood sample from a vein in the arm.
Test Preparation: None.

LDH (LACTATE DEHYDROGENASE)

Purpose of testing: To identify tissue damage and monitor its progress.
When to Get Tested? When a doctor suspects acute or chronic conditions causing tissue destruction.
Sample Collection: A blood sample from a vein in the arm.
Test Preparation: None.

LIPID PROFILE

Purpose of testing: To assess cardiovascular disease risk and monitor treatment.
When to Get Tested? As part of routine health checks, especially for individuals at risk of heart disease.
Sample Collection: A blood sample from a vein in the arm or from a finger prick.
Test Preparation: Fasting for 12 hours is typically required; only water is permitted.
A Lipid Profile Typically Includes:
- Total Cholesterol: Measures cholesterol in all lipoprotein particles.
- HDL (High-Density Lipoprotein) Cholesterol: The "good" cholesterol that removes excess cholesterol.
- LDL (Low-Density Lipoprotein) Cholesterol: The "bad" cholesterol that can contribute to atherosclerosis.
- Triglycerides: Measures the total triglyceride levels in the bloodstream.

Liver Function Test (LFT)

What is a Liver Function Test (LFT)?

The Liver Function Test (LFT) is a group of blood tests designed to evaluate the overall health and functionality of the liver. The liver plays a crucial role in metabolism, detoxification, and digestion. These tests help in detecting liver diseases, monitoring liver conditions, and assessing the impact of medications or other substances on liver health.

Purpose of Liver Function Testing

To screen for and diagnose liver diseases, such as hepatitis, cirrhosis, or fatty liver disease.
To monitor the progression of liver disease and response to treatment.
To check for liver damage due to alcohol consumption, toxins, or infections.
To evaluate the liver before starting medications that may affect its function.

When to Get Tested?

A liver function test is recommended if you:

Experience symptoms of liver disorders, such as jaundice (yellowing of skin and eyes), fatigue, nausea, dark urine, or abdominal pain.
Have been exposed to substances that may cause liver damage, such as alcohol, drugs, or toxic chemicals.
Have a family history of liver disease.
Are undergoing treatment for a liver-related condition and need to monitor progress.

Key Components of Liver Function Tests

LFT includes several tests measuring different liver enzymes and proteins:

Alanine Aminotransferase (ALT) – Helps detect liver inflammation or damage.
Aspartate Aminotransferase (AST) – Assesses liver function and damage.
Total Bilirubin & Conjugated Bilirubin – Evaluates liver's ability to process waste.
Alkaline Phosphatase (ALP) – Helps in detecting liver or bone disorders.
Albumin – Indicates how well the liver is producing essential proteins.
Total Protein – Measures overall protein levels, including albumin and globulin.
Prothrombin Time (PT) – Checks blood clotting function, which can be affected by liver disorders.

Sample Collection & Test Preparation

A blood sample is drawn from a vein in your arm.
No special preparation is required unless advised by a doctor.

Potassium Test – Assessing Electrolyte Balance

What is a Potassium Test?

A potassium test measures the level of potassium in your blood, an essential mineral that helps maintain proper muscle function, nerve signaling, and fluid balance.

Purpose of Testing

To detect high potassium levels (hyperkalemia) or low potassium levels (hypokalemia), which can affect heart and muscle function.
To monitor conditions like kidney disease, adrenal gland disorders, and certain medications.
To evaluate the cause of unexplained weakness, irregular heartbeat, or high blood pressure.

When to Get Tested?

As part of routine health check-ups.
If you have symptoms of potassium imbalance, such as muscle cramps, irregular heartbeat, or weakness.
If you are undergoing treatment for kidney disease or taking medications that affect potassium levels.

Sample Collection & Test Preparation

A blood sample is taken from a vein in your arm.
No special preparation is needed.

Sodium Test – Monitoring Fluid & Electrolyte Balance

What is a Sodium Test?

A sodium test measures the amount of sodium in your blood or urine. Sodium is vital for maintaining fluid balance, nerve function, and muscle contraction.

Purpose of Testing

To diagnose and monitor conditions that cause abnormal sodium levels, such as dehydration, kidney disease, and hormonal imbalances.
To help determine the cause of symptoms like confusion, seizures, swelling (oedema), or extreme thirst.
To evaluate and monitor long-term conditions such as high blood pressure or heart failure.

When to Get Tested?

If you are experiencing symptoms of dehydration, fluid retention, or blood pressure issues.
As part of a routine laboratory evaluation.
If you have been diagnosed with kidney or adrenal gland disorders.

Sample Collection & Test Preparation

A blood sample is drawn from a vein in your arm, or in some cases, a urine sample may be required.
No specific preparation is needed before the test.

Thyroid Function Test (TFT) – Understanding Your Thyroid Health

What is a Thyroid Function Test (TFT)?

The Thyroid Function Test (TFT) is a set of blood tests used to assess the function of the thyroid gland. The thyroid is a small, butterfly-shaped gland located in the neck that produces hormones essential for metabolism, energy production, and overall body function. TFTs help diagnose thyroid disorders such as hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism and monitor ongoing treatment.

Purpose of Thyroid Function Testing

To evaluate the overall function of the thyroid gland.
To diagnose thyroid disorders such as hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid) and hyperthyroidism (overactive thyroid).
To monitor thyroid hormone levels in individuals undergoing treatment for thyroid conditions.
To check for thyroid issues in individuals with symptoms such as unexplained weight changes, fatigue, rapid heartbeat, or hair loss.

When to Get Tested?

A thyroid function test is recommended:

As part of a routine health check-up.
When experiencing symptoms such as:
- Unexplained weight gain or loss.
- Fatigue or excessive tiredness.
- Increased sensitivity to cold or heat.
- Irregular heartbeat or palpitations.
- Hair thinning or hair loss.
- Depression or mood swings.
If there is a family history of thyroid disease.
During pregnancy, as thyroid disorders can impact maternal and fetal health.
To monitor treatment effectiveness for existing thyroid conditions.

Key Components of Thyroid Function Tests

TFT includes several tests that measure different thyroid hormones and related markers:

Thyroid-Stimulating Hormone (TSH) – The primary screening test to assess thyroid function.
Free Thyroxine (FT4) – Measures the active form of thyroxine (T4), which regulates metabolism.
Free Triiodothyronine (FT3) – Assesses the active form of triiodothyronine (T3), essential for energy and metabolic processes.
Total T4 & Total T3 – Measures total levels of thyroid hormones in circulation.
Thyroid Antibodies (TPO, TgAb, TRAb) – Helps detect autoimmune thyroid conditions like Hashimoto’s thyroiditis or Graves’ disease.

Sample Collection & Test Preparation

A blood sample is drawn from a vein in your arm.
No fasting or special preparation is needed; however, certain medications may affect results, so it’s important to inform your doctor about any medications or supplements you are taking.

Troponin Test – Detecting Heart Damage

What is a Troponin Test?

A Troponin Test measures the levels of troponin proteins in the blood. Troponin is released when the heart muscle is damaged, making it a key marker in diagnosing heart attacks and other heart-related conditions.

Purpose of Troponin Testing

To determine if a person has had a heart attack.
To assess damage to the heart muscle.
To help doctors make critical decisions in emergency cardiac care.
To monitor patients at risk of heart disease or those with conditions such as unstable angina.

When to Get Tested?

A troponin test is typically ordered:

If a person experiences symptoms of a heart attack, such as:
- Severe chest pain or pressure.
- Shortness of breath.
- Nausea or vomiting.
- Sweating or dizziness.
- Pain radiating to the arm, jaw, or back.
If there is a history of heart disease and a healthcare provider needs to evaluate heart function.
To monitor patients who have undergone cardiac procedures or treatments.

Sample Collection & Test Preparation

A blood sample is drawn from a vein in the arm.
No special preparation is needed before the test.