Deployment and Military

The Deployment Panel 1 includes a number of tests typically needed prior to primary deployment overseas.

The Deployment Panel 1 contains the following tests:

• ABO Group and Rh Type
• CBC (includes Differential and Platelets)
• Comprehensive Metabolic Panel (CMP)
• Glucose-6-Phosphate Dehydrogenase, Quant.
• Hemoglobin A1c with eAG
• HIV-1/2 Antigen and Antibodies, Fourth Generation, with Reflexes
• Lipid Panel
• Urinalysis (UA), Complete
• Varicella-Zoster Virus Antibody (IgG)

The Deployment Panel 2 includes many tests typically needed prior to deployment overseas.

The Deployment Panel 2 contains the following tests:

• CBC (includes Differential and Platelets)
• Comprehensive Metabolic Panel (CMP)
• Glucose-6-Phosphate Dehydrogenase, Quant.
• Hemoglobin A1c with eAG
• HIV-1/2 Antigen and Antibodies, Fourth Generation, with Reflexes
• Lipid Panel
• Urinalysis (UA), Complete

The Deployment Panel 3 includes many tests typically needed prior to deployment overseas for a man over the age of 40.

The Deployment Panel 3 includes the following tests:

• CBC (includes Differential and Platelets)
• Comprehensive Metabolic Panel (CMP)
• Glucose-6-Phosphate Dehydrogenase, Quant.
• Hemoglobin A1c with eAG
• HIV-1/2 Antigen and Antibodies, Fourth Generation, with Reflexes
• Lipid Panel
• PSA Total
• Urinalysis (UA), Complete

The Deployment Panel 4 (Repeat Deployment) includes many tests typically needed prior to a repeat deployment overseas.

The Deployment Panel 4 includes the following tests:

• CBC (includes Differential and Platelets)
• Comprehensive Metabolic Panel (CMP)
• Hemoglobin A1c with eAG
• HIV-1/2 Antigen and Antibodies, Fourth Generation, with Reflexes
• Lipid Panel
• Urinalysis (UA), Complete
• Varicella-Zoster Virus Antibody (IgG)

The Deployment Panel 5 includes many tests typically needed prior to primary deployment overseas for those under the age of 40.

The Deployment Panel 5 includes the following tests:

• ABO Group and Rh Type
• CBC (includes Differential and Platelets)
• Comprehensive Metabolic Panel (CMP)
• Glucose-6-Phosphate Dehydrogenase, Quant.
• Hemoglobin A1c with eAG
• HIV-1/2 Antigen and Antibodies, Fourth Generation, with Reflexes
• Urinalysis (UA), Complete
• Varicella-Zoster Virus Antibody (IgG)

The Deployment Panel 6 includes the following tests:

• ABO Group and Rh Type
• CBC (includes Differential and Platelets)
• Comprehensive Metabolic Panel (CMP)
• Glucose-6-Phosphate Dehydrogenase, Quant.
• Hemoglobin A1c with eAG
• HIV-1/2 Antigen and Antibodies, Fourth Generation, with Reflexes
• Lipid Panel
• PSA Total
• Urinalysis (UA), Complete
• Varicella-Zoster Virus Antibody (IgG)

Description: A Complete Blood Count (CBC) test is a common laboratory test that provides valuable insights into a patient's overall health and helps detect potential blood disorders or abnormalities. It examines the three major components of blood: red blood cells (RBCs), white blood cells (WBCs), and platelets. By measuring various parameters related to these blood cells, the CBC test offers essential information for diagnosis, monitoring, and treatment planning.

Also Known As: CBC test, Complete Blood Count Test, Total Blood Count Test, CBC with Differential and Platelets test, Hemogram test  

Collection Method: Blood Draw 

Specimen Type: Whole Blood 

Test Preparation: No preparation required 

Average Processing Time: 1 to 2 days

When is a Complete Blood Count test ordered?  

A CBC test may be ordered in various situations. These include:

1. Routine Check-ups: Doctors often include a CBC test as part of routine check-ups to assess overall health and screen for any underlying blood-related conditions.

2. Evaluation of Symptoms: When a patient presents with unexplained symptoms such as fatigue, weakness, frequent infections, bruising, or excessive bleeding, a CBC test can help identify potential causes or abnormalities.

3. Monitoring Chronic Conditions: Patients with chronic conditions like anemia, infections, autoimmune disorders, or blood-related diseases require regular CBC tests to monitor their condition, track treatment effectiveness, and adjust therapies accordingly.

4. Pre-Surgical Assessment: Prior to surgery or invasive medical procedures, doctors order CBC tests to evaluate a patient's blood cell counts and ensure their ability to handle the procedure safely.

What does a Complete Blood Count test check for? 

The complete blood count (CBC) is a blood test that determines the number of cells in circulation. White blood cells (WBCs), red blood cells (RBCs), and platelets (PLTs) are three types of cells suspended in a fluid called plasma. They are largely created and matured in the bone marrow and are released into the bloodstream when needed under normal circumstances. 

A CBC is mainly performed with an automated machine that measures a variety of factors, including the number of cells present in a person's blood sample. The findings of a CBC can reveal not only the quantity of different cell types but also the physical properties of some of the cells. 

Significant differences in one or more blood cell populations may suggest the presence of one or more diseases. Other tests are frequently performed to assist in determining the reason for aberrant results. This frequently necessitates visual confirmation via a microscope examination of a blood smear. A skilled laboratory technician can assess the appearance and physical features of blood cells, such as size, shape, and color, and note any anomalies. Any extra information is taken note of and communicated to the healthcare provider. This information provides the health care provider with further information about the cause of abnormal CBC results. 

The CBC focuses on three different types of cells: 

WBCs (White Blood Cells) 

The body uses five different types of WBCs, also known as leukocytes, to keep itself healthy and battle infections and other types of harm. The five different leukocytes are eosinophiles, lymphocytes, neutrophiles, basophils, and monocytes. They are found in relatively steady numbers in the blood. Depending on what is going on in the body, these values may momentarily rise or fall. An infection, for example, can cause the body to manufacture more neutrophils in order to combat bacterial infection. The amount of eosinophils in the body may increase as a result of allergies. A viral infection may cause an increase in lymphocyte production. Abnormal (immature or mature) white cells multiply fast in certain illness situations, such as leukemia, raising the WBC count. 

RBCs (Red Blood Cells) 

The bone marrow produces red blood cells, also known as erythrocytes, which are transferred into the bloodstream after maturing. Hemoglobin, a protein that distributes oxygen throughout the body, is found in these cells. Because RBCs have a 120-day lifespan, the bone marrow must constantly manufacture new RBCs to replace those that have aged and disintegrated or have been lost due to hemorrhage. A variety of diseases, including those that cause severe bleeding, can alter the creation of new RBCs and their longevity. 

The CBC measures the number of RBCs and hemoglobin in the blood, as well as the proportion of RBCs in the blood (hematocrit), and if the RBC population appears to be normal. RBCs are generally homogeneous in size and shape, with only minor differences; however, considerable variances can arise in illnesses including vitamin B12 and folate inadequacy, iron deficiency, and a range of other ailments. Anemia occurs when the concentration of red blood cells and/or the amount of hemoglobin in the blood falls below normal, resulting in symptoms such as weariness and weakness. In a far smaller percentage of cases, there may be an excess of RBCs in the blood (erythrocytosis or polycythemia). This might obstruct the flow of blood through the tiny veins and arteries in extreme circumstances. 

Platelets 

Platelets, also known as thrombocytes, are small cell fragments that aid in the regular clotting of blood. A person with insufficient platelets is more likely to experience excessive bleeding and bruises. Excess platelets can induce excessive clotting or excessive bleeding if the platelets are not operating properly. The platelet count and size are determined by the CBC. 

Lab tests often ordered with a Complete Blood Count test: 

• Reticulocytes
• Iron and Total Iron Binding Capacity
• Basic Metabolic Panel
• Comprehensive Metabolic Panel
• Lipid Panel
• Vitamin B12 and Folate
• Prothrombin with INR and Partial Thromboplastin Times
• Sed Rate (ESR)
• C-Reactive Protein
• Epstein-Barr Virus
• Von Willebrand Factor Antigen

Conditions where a Complete Blood Count test is recommended: 

A CBC test can assist in diagnosing and monitoring various conditions or diseases, including:

1. Anemia: CBC helps identify different types of anemia, such as iron deficiency anemia, vitamin B12 deficiency anemia, or autoimmune hemolytic anemia.

2. Infections: An abnormal CBC count can indicate the presence of an infection, whether bacterial, viral, or fungal. It provides information about the severity and type of infection.

3. Leukemia: CBC abnormalities may suggest the presence of certain blood cancers, including leukemia. Further tests are necessary to confirm the diagnosis.

4. Inflammatory Disorders: Conditions like rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, or vasculitis can cause changes in the CBC results, indicating ongoing inflammation or autoimmune processes.

Commonly Asked Questions: 

How does my health care provider use a Complete Blood Count test? 

Health care providers use the results of a CBC test to:

1. Confirm Diagnoses: Abnormal CBC findings help in diagnosing specific conditions or diseases, such as anemia, infections, blood disorders, or certain cancers.

2. Monitor Treatment Progress: Regular CBC tests allow doctors to evaluate the effectiveness of treatments or therapies and make necessary adjustments based on blood cell count improvements or changes.

3. Guide Further Investigations: If CBC results indicate abnormalities, doctors may recommend additional specialized tests or refer the patient to a hematologist or other relevant specialists for further evaluation and diagnosis.

By understanding the purpose, significance, and applications of a CBC test, patients and healthcare providers can utilize this valuable diagnostic tool to aid in the management of various health conditions and ensure optimal patient care.

What do my Complete Blood Count results mean? 

A low Red Blood Cell Count, also known as anemia, could be due many different causes such as chronic bleeding, a bone marrow disorder, and nutritional deficiency just to name a few. A high Red Blood Cell Count, also known as polycythemia, could be due to several conditions including lung disease, dehydration, and smoking. Both Hemoglobin and Hematocrit tend to reflect Red Blood Cell Count results, so if your Red Blood Cell Count is low, your Hematocrit and Hemoglobin will likely also be low. Results should be discussed with your health care provider who can provide interpretation of your results and determine the appropriate next steps or lab tests to further investigate your health. 

What do my Differential results mean? 

A low White Blood Cell count or low WBC count, also known as leukopenia, could be due to a number of different disorders including autoimmune issues, severe infection, and lymphoma. A high White Blood Cell count, or high WBC count, also known as leukocytosis, can also be due to many different disorders including infection, leukemia, and inflammation. Abnormal levels in your White Blood Cell Count will be reflected in one or more of your different white blood cells. Knowing which white blood cell types are affected will help your healthcare provider narrow down the issue. Results should be discussed with your health care provider who can provide interpretation of your results and determine the appropriate next steps or lab tests to further investigate your health. 

What do my Platelet results mean? 

A low Platelet Count, also known as thrombocytopenia, could be due to a number of different disorders including autoimmune issues, viral infection, and leukemia. A high Platelet Count, also known as Thrombocytosis, can also be due to many different disorders including cancer, iron deficiency, and rheumatoid arthritis. Results should be discussed with your health care provider who can provide interpretation of your results and determine the appropriate next steps or lab tests to further investigate your health. 

NOTE: Ulta Lab Tests provides CBC test results from Quest Diagnostics as they are reported. Often, different biomarker results are made available at different time intervals. When reporting the results, Ulta Lab Tests denotes those biomarkers not yet reported as 'pending' for every biomarker the test might report. Only biomarkers Quest Diagnostics observes are incorporated and represented in the final CBC test results provided by Ulta Lab Tests. 

NOTE: Only measurable biomarkers will be reported. Certain biomarkers do not appear in healthy individuals. 

We advise having your results reviewed by a licensed medical healthcare professional for proper interpretation of your results.

Reflex Parameters for Manual Slide Review

CBC Reflex Pathway

Step 1 - The slide review is performed by qualified Laboratory staff and includes:

• Confirmation of differential percentages
• WBC and platelet estimates, when needed
• Full review of RBC morphology
• Comments for toxic changes, RBC inclusions, abnormal lymphs, and other
• significant findings
• If the differential percentages agree with the automated counts and no abnormal cells are seen, the automated differential is reported with appropriate comments

Step 2 - The slide review is performed by qualified Laboratory staff and includes: If any of the following are seen on the slide review, Laboratory staff will perform a manual differential:

• Immature, abnormal, or toxic cells
• nRBC’s
• Disagreement with automated differential
• Atypical/abnormal RBC morphology
• Any RBC inclusions

Step 3 - If any of the following are seen on the manual differential, a Pathologist will review the slide:

• WBC<1,500 with abnormal cells noted
• Blasts/immature cells, hairy cell lymphs, or megakaryocytes
• New abnormal lymphocytes or monocytes
• Variant or atypical lymphs >15%
• Blood parasites
• RBC morphology with 3+ spherocytes, RBC inclusions, suspect Hgb-C,
• crystals, Pappenheimer bodies or bizarre morphology
• nRBC’s

Description: The Comprehensive Metabolic Panel (CMP) test is a widely used blood test that provides valuable insights into a patient's overall health and helps evaluate the function of various organs and systems in the body. It measures a comprehensive set of chemical substances in the blood, including electrolytes, kidney and liver function markers, glucose, and protein levels. The CMP test offers a comprehensive overview of the body's metabolic state and aids in diagnosing and monitoring various conditions.

Also Known As: CMP, Chem, Chem-14, Chem-12, Chem-21, Chemistry Panel, Chem Panel, Chem Screen, Chemistry Screen, SMA 12, SMA 20, SMA 21, SMAC, Chem test

Collection Method: Blood Draw 

Specimen Type: Serum 

Test Preparation: 9-12 hours fasting is preferred.

Average Processing Time: 1 to 2 days 

When is a Comprehensive Metabolic Panel test ordered:  

A Comprehensive Metabolic Panel (CMP) test may be ordered in several situations to assess a patient's health:

1. Routine Health Check-ups: Doctors often include a CMP test as part of routine check-ups to assess overall health, screen for underlying conditions, and establish a baseline for future comparisons.

2. Evaluation of Organ Function: The CMP test provides valuable information about the function of vital organs such as the liver, kidneys, and pancreas. It helps detect abnormalities or diseases affecting these organs, such as liver disease, kidney dysfunction, or diabetes.

3. Monitoring Medications or Treatments: Patients undergoing certain medications or treatments, such as those that may impact liver or kidney function, require regular monitoring through CMP tests to ensure the treatments are well-tolerated and effective.

4. Investigation of Symptoms: When patients present with symptoms like fatigue, abdominal pain, jaundice, frequent urination, or unexplained weight loss, a CMP test can aid in identifying potential underlying causes or imbalances.

What does a Comprehensive Metabolic Panel blood test check for? 

The complete metabolic panel (CMP) is a set of 20 tests that provides critical information to a healthcare professional about a person's current metabolic status, check for liver or kidney disease, electrolyte and acid/base balance, and blood glucose and blood protein levels. Abnormal results, particularly when they are combined, can suggest a problem that needs to be addressed. 

The following tests are included in the CMP: 

• Albumin: this is a measure of Albumin levels in your blood. Albumin is a protein made by the liver that is responsible for many vital roles including transporting nutrients throughout the body and preventing fluid from leaking out of blood vessels. 

• Albumin/Globulin Ratio: this is a ratio between your total Albumin and Globulin  

• Alkaline Phosphatase: this is a measure of Alkaline phosphatase or ALP in your blood. Alkaline phosphatase is a protein found in all body tissues, however the ALP found in blood comes from the liver and bones. Elevated levels are often associated with liver damage, gallbladder disease, or bone disorder. 

• Alt: this is a measure of Alanine transaminase or ALT in your blood. Alanine Aminotransferase is an enzyme found in the highest amounts in the liver with small amounts in the heart and muscles. Elevated levels are often associated with liver damage. 

• AST: this is a measure of Aspartate Aminotransferase or AST. Aspartate Aminotransferase is an enzyme found mostly in the heart and liver, with smaller amounts in the kidney and muscles. Elevated levels are often associated with liver damage. 

• Bilirubin, Total: this is a measure of bilirubin in your blood. Bilirubin is an orange-yellowish waste product produced from the breakdown of heme which is a component of hemoglobin found in red blood cells. The liver is responsible for removal of bilirubin from the body. 

• Bun/Creatinine Ratio: this is a ratio between your Urea Nitrogen (BUN) result and Creatinine result.  

• Calcium: this is a measurement of calcium in your blood. Calcium is the most abundant and one of the most important minerals in the body as it essential for proper nerve, muscle, and heart function. 

• Calcium: is used for blood clot formation and the formation and maintenance of bones and teeth. 

• Carbon Dioxide: this is a measure of carbon dioxide in your blood. Carbon dioxide is a negatively charged electrolyte that works with other electrolytes such as chloride, potassium, and sodium to regulate the body’s acid-base balance and fluid levels.  

• Chloride: this is a measure of Chloride in your blood. Chloride is a negatively charged electrolyte that works with other electrolytes such as potassium and sodium to regulate the body’s acid-base balance and fluid levels. 

• Creatinine: this is a measure of Creatinine levels in your blood. Creatinine is created from the breakdown of creatine in your muscles and is removed from your body by the kidneys. Elevated creatinine levels are often associated with kidney damage. 

• Egfr African American: this is a measure of how well your kidneys are functioning. Glomeruli are tiny filters in your kidneys that filter out waste products from your blood for removal while retaining important substances such as nutrients and blood cells. 

• Egfr Non-Afr. American: this is a measure of how well your kidneys are functioning. Glomeruli are tiny filters in your kidneys that filter out waste products from your blood for removal while retaining important substances such as nutrients and blood cells. 

• Globulin: this is a measure of all blood proteins in your blood that are not albumin. 

• Glucose: this is a measure of glucose in your blood. Glucose is created from the breakdown of carbohydrates during digestion and is the body’s primary source of energy. 

• Potassium: this is a measure of Potassium in your blood. Potassium is an electrolyte that plays a vital role in cell metabolism, nerve and muscle function, and transport of nutrients into cells and removal of wastes products out of cells. 

• Protein, Total: this is a measure of total protein levels in your blood. 
  Sodium: this is a measure of Sodium in your blood. Sodium is an electrolyte that plays a vital role in nerve and muscle function. 

• Sodium: this is a measure of sodium in your blood's serum. Sodium is a vital mineral for nerve and muscle cell function.

• Urea Nitrogen (Bun): this is a measure of Urea Nitrogen in your blood, also known as Blood UreaNitrogen (BUN). Urea is a waste product created in the liver when proteins are broken down into amino acids. Elevated levels are often associated with kidney damage. 

Lab tests often ordered with a Comprehensive Metabolic Panel test: 

• Complete Blood Count with Differential and Platelets
• Iron and Total Iron Binding Capacity
• Lipid Panel
• Vitamin B12 and Folate
• Prothrombin with INR and Partial Thromboplastin Times
• Sed Rate (ESR)
• C-Reactive Protein

Conditions where a Comprehensive Metabolic Panel test is recommended: 

A Comprehensive Metabolic Panel (CMP) test can assist in diagnosing and monitoring various conditions or diseases, including:

1. Liver Diseases: The CMP helps identify liver diseases such as hepatitis, cirrhosis, or liver damage due to alcohol abuse or medication toxicity.

2. Kidney Diseases: Abnormalities in kidney function markers on the CMP test can indicate conditions like chronic kidney disease, kidney infections, or kidney stones.

3. Diabetes or Glucose Imbalances: The CMP provides crucial information on blood glucose levels, aiding in the diagnosis and management of diabetes or identifying glucose imbalances.

4. Electrolyte Imbalances: Abnormal levels of electrolytes detected by the CMP can indicate conditions such as dehydration, kidney dysfunction, or hormonal disorders.

Commonly Asked Questions: 

How does my health care provider use a Comprehensive Metabolic Panel test? 

Health care providers use the results of a Comprehensive Metabolic Panel (CMP) test to:

1. Diagnose Medical Conditions: Abnormalities in CMP test results can help healthcare providers diagnose various conditions such as liver disease, kidney dysfunction, diabetes, or electrolyte imbalances.

2. Monitor Treatment Effectiveness: Regular CMP tests allow healthcare providers to monitor the impact of treatments or medications on organ function, glucose control, or electrolyte balance.

3. Evaluate Overall Health: The CMP test provides a comprehensive snapshot of the patient's metabolic state and aids in evaluating overall health, identifying potential risk factors, and guiding further investigations if necessary.

By effectively utilizing the results of a Comprehensive Metabolic Panel (CMP) test, healthcare providers can diagnose conditions, monitor treatment progress, and make informed decisions regarding patient care and management.

What do my Comprehensive Metabolic Panel test results mean? 

The results of the tests included in the CMP are usually analyzed together to look for patterns. A single abnormal test result may indicate something different than a series of abnormal test findings. A high result on one of the liver enzyme tests, for example, is not the same as a high result on several liver enzyme tests. 

Several sets of CMPs, frequently performed on various days, may be examined to gain insights into the underlying disease and response to treatment, especially in hospitalized patients. 

Out-of-range findings for any of the CMP tests can be caused by a variety of illnesses, including kidney failure, breathing issues, and diabetes-related complications, to name a few. If any of the results are abnormal, one or more follow-up tests are usually ordered to help determine the reason and/or establish a diagnosis. 

Is there anything else I should know? 

A wide range of prescription and over-the-counter medications can have an impact on the results of the CMP's components. Any medications you're taking should be disclosed to your healthcare professional. Similarly, it is critical to provide a thorough history because many other circumstances can influence how your results are interpreted. 

What's the difference between the CMP and the BMP tests, and why would my doctor choose one over the other? 

The CMP consists of 14 tests, while the basic metabolic panel (BMP) is a subset of those with eight tests. The liver (ALP, ALT, AST, and bilirubin) and protein (albumin and total protein) tests are not included. If a healthcare provider wants a more thorough picture of a person's organ function or to check for specific illnesses like diabetes or liver or kidney disease, he or she may prescribe a CMP rather than a BMP. 

We advise having your results reviewed by a licensed medical healthcare professional for proper interpretation of your results.

Please note the following regarding BUN/Creatinine ratio: 

The lab does not report the calculation for the BUN/Creatinine Ratio unless one or both biomarkers’ results fall out of the published range. 

If you still wish to see the value, it's easy to calculate. Simply take your Urea Nitrogen (BUN) result and divide it by your Creatinine result.  

As an example, if your Urea Nitrogen result is 11 and your Creatinine result is 0.86, then you would divide 11 by 0.86 and get a BUN/Creatinine Ratio result of 12.79. 

Description: The Glucose 6 Phosphate Dehydrogenase, or G6PD, test is used to determine if you inherited a G6PD deficiency.

Also Known As: G6PD Test, G6PD Enzyme Test, RBC G6PD test, G-6-P-D Test

Collection Method: Blood Draw

Specimen Type: Whole Blood

Test Preparation: No preparation required

Average Processing Time: 4 to 5 days

When is a Glucose-6-Phosphate Dehydrogenase test ordered?

When a person develops signs and symptoms of hemolytic anemia, G6PD enzyme testing is done. When someone has experienced an episode of elevated RBC destruction but the crisis has passed, testing may be done.

When other lab test findings point to hemolytic anemia, testing may be performed. 

When alternative causes of anemia and jaundice have been eliminated and several weeks have passed since an acute episode, G6PD activity testing is usually recommended.

If available, newborn screening can be done in the first day or two after birth.

What does a Glucose-6-Phosphate Dehydrogenase blood test check for?

The enzyme glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase is involved in the creation of energy. It is found in all cells, including red blood cells, and aids in the protection of these cells against some hazardous by-products of cellular metabolism. RBCs with a G6PD deficit are more susceptible to splitting apart under specific situations. To assist diagnose a deficit, this test analyzes the quantity of G6PD in RBCs.

G6PD insufficiency is a hereditary condition. When people who have inherited this illness are exposed to a trigger like stress, infection, certain medicines, or another substance, the structure of their red blood cells changes significantly. Heinz bodies are deposits formed by hemoglobin, the life-sustaining, oxygen-transporting protein found in RBCs. When exposed to fava beans, some people have these symptoms, which is known as "favism." RBCs might break apart more easily as a result of these alterations, resulting in a reduction in the quantity of RBCs. Hemolytic anemia occurs when the body is unable to manufacture enough RBCs to replace those that have been destroyed. Symptoms include jaundice, weakness, exhaustion, and/or shortness of breath.

G6PD insufficiency is the most common enzyme deficiency, affecting over 400 million individuals worldwide. It can be found in as many as 10% of African-American men and 20% of African men. People from the Mediterranean and Southeast Asia are also susceptible.

Due to mutations or alterations in the G6PD gene that produce lower enzyme activity, G6PD deficiency is inherited and handed down from parent to kid. G6PD insufficiency has approximately 440 different forms. The G6PD gene is found on the X chromosome, which is inherited from both parents. Because men have only one X and one Y chromosome, the G6PD gene is only found on the X chromosome. If a guy gets the single X chromosome with a mutated gene, he may have G6PD deficiency.

Women inherit two copies of the G6PD gene since they have two X chromosomes. Women with only one mutant gene produce enough G6PD to show no symptoms most of the time, although they may show a minor version of the deficit in stressful settings. A mother can also carry the single altered gene to any male children she has. Women with two defective gene copies, which could lead to G6PD deficiency, are uncommon.

In infants, G6PD deficiency is a prevalent cause of chronic jaundice. This can result in substantial brain damage and mental impairment if left untreated.

The majority of persons with G6PD deficiency can live relatively normal lives, however there is no specific treatment for it other than prevention. They must be cautious and avoid pharmaceuticals like aspirin, phenazopyridine, and rasburicase, as well as antibiotics with "sulf" in the name and dapsone, anti-malarial treatments with "quine" in the name, foods like fava beans, and chemical chemicals like naphthalene. Fava beans, often known as broad beans, are widely farmed in the Mediterranean region. Acute viral and bacterial infections can cause hemolytic anemia and blood acid levels to rise. Individuals should seek a thorough list of these triggers from their healthcare provider. The list on the G6PD Deficiency Favism Association website is a nice place to start.

RBCs are destroyed at a faster rate in hemolytic anemia, and the person affected feels pale and tired as their ability to provide oxygen to their body decreases. Jaundice can be observed in severe cases of RBC breakdown. The majority of these episodes are self-limiting, but if a substantial number of RBCs are lost and the body is unable to replenish them quickly enough, the affected person may require a blood transfusion. If not addressed, this illness can be fatal. Chronic anemia can afflict a small number of people with G6PD deficiency.

Lab tests often ordered with a Glucose-6-Phosphate Dehydrogenase test:

• Complete Blood Count (CBC)
• Reticulocyte Count
• Bilirubin
• Hemoglobin
• Red Blood Cell Count
• Lactate Dehydrogenase (LD)
• Haptoglobin

Conditions where a Glucose-6-Phosphate Dehydrogenase test is recommended:

• Hemolytic Anemia

How does my health care provider use a Glucose-6-Phosphate Dehydrogenase test?

The enzyme assay for glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase is used to screen for and diagnose G6PD deficiency. It could be used to screen children who were born with unexplained chronic jaundice. Currently, babies are not routinely tested for G6PD deficiency; however, this depends on the state that offers the service. According to the National Newborn Screening and Genetics Resource Center, two states, Pennsylvania and the District of Columbia, offer G6PD testing as part of their newborn screening panel as of November 2014.

G6PD is an enzyme present in all cells, including red blood cells, that protects them against hazardous by-products of cellular metabolism. RBCs with a G6PD deficit are more susceptible to splitting apart under specific situations.

People of any age who have experienced unexplained episodes of hemolytic anemia, jaundice, or dark urine may benefit from G6PD testing to assist establish a diagnosis. G6PD deficiency may be suspected if the person had a recent viral or bacterial illness or was exposed to a recognized trigger, followed by a hemolytic event.

G6PD testing may be repeated on occasion to validate initial findings. A simple qualitative test is usually used in screening tests to determine if a person has a high amount of G6PD in his or her cells. A quantitative test will be used to determine the actual quantity of enzyme activity during confirmation testing.

G6PD levels are normal in newly generated cells in the most prevalent form of G6PD deficiency seen in people of African heritage, but decline by up to 75% as RBCs age. As a result, testing should be delayed for several weeks after a hemolytic episode has passed. The older, more fragile G6PD-deficient RBCs are often killed during the episode, leaving the newer, less deficient cells to be tested, potentially hiding a G6PD deficiency.

Although genetic testing is not commonly performed, it can be requested as a follow-up to an enzyme test that suggests a deficiency in order to discover which G6PD mutations are present. There are currently around 440 G6PD gene variants that can produce varied degrees of deficiency based on the mutation and the specific person. Some mutations have no effect on the activity of the G6PD enzyme. The G6PD mutations have been divided into five groups by the World Health Organization, depending on the enzyme levels and their influence on the affected person's health. During testing, however, only the most prevalent G6PD mutations are discovered. If a certain mutation is known to exist in a family line, tests to detect that mutation can be performed.

What do my Glucose-6-Phosphate Dehydrogenase test results mean?

A deficit is indicated by a low level of G6PD enzyme. When exposed to a trigger, an affected person is more likely to develop symptoms. However, the findings cannot be utilized to forecast how an affected individual will react in a specific situation. Symptom severity varies from person to person and from episode to episode.

If a male has a normal G6PD enzyme level, he is unlikely to have a deficit, and if anemia is present, it is most likely due to another cause. If the test was done during a bout of hemolytic anemia, it should be redone several weeks later once the RBC population has replenished and matured.

Carriers, who have one mutant and one normal gene copy, will have some G6PD-deficient RBCs and others that are not. G6PD levels in these women are normally normal or near normal, and they rarely exhibit symptoms. A carrier will have a normal or low normal G6PD level, therefore they may not be discovered by G6PD screening, but they will be detected by a G6PD confirmation test, which measures the overall quantity of enzyme present in the cells. It's worth noting that a rare female with two defective gene copies will almost certainly have a large drop in G6PD levels.

We advise having your results reviewed by a licensed medical healthcare professional for proper interpretation of your results.

Description: Hemoglobin A1c is the protein Hemoglobin found in red blood cells, but with glucose attached to it. Hemoglobin A1c is used to check for and monitor diabetes as it shows average blood glucose levels over the past 2 to 3 months.

Also Known As: A1c Test, Glycohemoglobin Test, Glycated Hemoglobin Test, Glycosylated Hemoglobin Test, HbA1c Test, Estimated Average Glucose Test

Collection Method: Blood Draw

Specimen Type: Whole Blood

Test Preparation: No preparation required

Average Processing Time: 1 to 2 days

When is a Hemoglobin A1c with eAG test ordered?

A1c may be requested as part of a routine physical examination or when a practitioner suspects a patient of having diabetes due to characteristic signs or symptoms of high blood sugar, such as:

• Increased thirst and fluid intake
• Increased urination
• Increase in hunger
• Fatigue
• Vision is hazy
• Infections that take a long time to heal

Adults who are overweight and have the following additional risk factors may consider doing the A1c test:

• Physically inactive
• Diabetes in a first-degree relative
• Race/ethnicity that is at high risk such as African Americans, Latinos, Native Americans, Asian Americans, and Pacific Islanders
• Blood pressure that is high
• A lipid profile that is abnormal.
• Polycystic ovarian syndrome 
• Cardiovascular disease 
• Insulin resistance and other conditions links to insulin resistance

People who have not been diagnosed with diabetes but have been assessed to be at an increased risk of developing diabetes should have their A1c levels tested at least once a year.

Monitoring

The A1c test may be performed 2 to 4 times a year, depending on the type of diabetes a person has, how well their diabetes is controlled, and the healthcare provider's recommendations. If diabetics are fulfilling treatment goals and have stable glycemic control, the American Diabetes Association advises A1c testing at least twice a year. A1c may be ordered quarterly when someone is first diagnosed with diabetes or if control isn't good.

What does a Hemoglobin A1c with eAG blood test check for?

Hemoglobin A1c, often known as A1c or glycated hemoglobin, is hemoglobin that has been attached to glucose. By assessing the proportion of glycated hemoglobin, the A1c test determines the average quantity of glucose in the blood during the previous 2 to 3 months.

Hemoglobin is a protein present inside red blood cells that transports oxygen.

Glycated hemoglobin is generated in proportion to the amount of glucose in the blood. Once glucose attaches to hemoglobin, it stays there for the duration of the red blood cell's life, which is usually about 120 days. The most common kind of glycated hemoglobin is known as A1c. A1c is created on a daily basis and is gradually removed from the bloodstream as older RBCs die and younger RBCs replace them.

This test can be used to detect and diagnose diabetes, as well as the risk of developing it. According to the American Diabetes Association's standards of medical care in diabetes, diabetes can be diagnosed using either A1c or glucose.

This test can also be used to track the progress of a diabetic patient's treatment. It aids in determining how well a person's glucose levels have been controlled over time by medication. An A1c of less than 7% suggests good glucose control and a lower risk of diabetic complications for the majority of diabetics for monitoring reasons.

eAG may help you understand your A1C value because eAG is a unit similar to what you see regularly through self-monitoring on your meter.

Lab tests often ordered with a Hemoglobin A1c with eAG test:

• Complete Blood Count
• Glucose
• Frucstosamine
• Albumin
• Comprehensive Metabolic Panel
• Microalbumin w/creatinine
• Lipid panel

Conditions where a Hemoglobin A1c with eAG test is recommended:

• Type 1 Diabetes
• Type 2 Diabetes

How does my health care provider use a Hemoglobin A1c with eAG test?

Adults can use the hemoglobin A1c test to screen for and diagnose diabetes and prediabetes.

A fasting glucose or oral glucose tolerance test should be done to screen or diagnose diabetes in these instances.

The A1c test is also used to track diabetics' glucose control over time. Diabetics strive to maintain blood glucose levels that are as close to normal as feasible. This helps to reduce the risks of consequences associated with chronically high blood sugar levels, such as progressive damage to body organs such as the kidneys, eyes, cardiovascular system, and nerves. The result of the A1c test depicts the average quantity of glucose in the blood over the previous 2-3 months. This can help diabetics and their healthcare professionals determine whether the steps they're taking to control their diabetes are working or if they need to be tweaked.

A1c is a blood test that is usually used to help newly diagnosed diabetics identify how high their uncontrolled blood glucose levels have been in the previous 2-3 months. The test may be ordered multiple times throughout the control period, and then at least twice a year after that to ensure that good control is maintained.

What does my Hemoglobin A1c test result mean?

HbA1c levels is currently reported as a percentage for monitoring glucose control, and it is suggested that most diabetics try to keep their hemoglobin A1c below 7%. The closer diabetics can keep their A1c to the therapeutic objective of less than 7% without experiencing abnormally low blood glucose, the better their diabetes is controlled. The risk of problems rises as the A1c rises.

However, a person with type 2 diabetes may have an A1c goal set by their healthcare professional. The length of time since diagnosis, the presence of other diseases as well as diabetes complications, the risk of hypoglycemia complications, life expectancy, and whether or not the person has a support system and healthcare resources readily available are all factors that may influence the goal.

For example, a person with heart disease who has had type 2 diabetes for many years without diabetic complications may have a higher A1c target set by their healthcare provider, whereas someone who is otherwise healthy and newly diagnosed may have a lower target set by their healthcare provider as long as low blood sugar is not a significant risk.

We advise having your results reviewed by a licensed medical healthcare professional for proper interpretation of your results.

Description: A Lipid Panel test, also known as a lipid profile or lipid panel, is a blood test that provides valuable information about a patient's lipid levels and helps assess their risk for cardiovascular diseases. It measures various types of lipids, including cholesterol and triglycerides, which are essential for maintaining overall health. The Lipid Panel test plays a crucial role in evaluating lipid metabolism and identifying potential risks for heart disease.

Also Known As: Lipid Profile Test, Lipid Test, Cholesterol Profile Test, Cholesterol Panel Test, Cholesterol Test, Coronary Risk Panel Test, lipid blood test 

Collection Method: Blood Draw 

Specimen Type: Serum 

Test Preparation: Patient should be fasting 9-12 hours prior to collection.

Average Processing Time: 1 to 2 days

When is a Lipid Panel test ordered?  

A Lipid Panel test may be ordered in several situations to evaluate a patient's lipid levels and assess cardiovascular risk factors:

1. Routine Health Check-ups: Doctors often include a Lipid Panel test as part of routine check-ups, especially for individuals with risk factors such as a family history of heart disease, obesity, high blood pressure, or diabetes.

2. Assessment of Cardiovascular Risk: The Lipid Panel test helps assess a patient's risk for cardiovascular diseases like heart attacks or strokes. It is particularly important for individuals with a history of cardiovascular disease or those with risk factors such as smoking, sedentary lifestyle, or poor diet.

3. Monitoring Lipid-Lowering Treatments: For patients already diagnosed with high cholesterol or lipid disorders, regular Lipid Panel tests are ordered to monitor the effectiveness of lipid-lowering medications or lifestyle modifications.

4. Evaluation of Overall Lipid Metabolism: The Lipid Panel test is used to evaluate lipid metabolism and provide insights into the balance of different lipids in the body, aiding in the detection of lipid disorders or imbalances.

What does a Lipid Panel blood test check for? 

Lipids are a class of fats and fat-like compounds that are essential components of cells and energy sources. The level of certain lipids in the blood is measured by a lipid profile. 

Lipoprotein particles transport two key lipids, cholesterol, and triglycerides, through the bloodstream. Protein, cholesterol, triglyceride, and phospholipid molecules are all present in each particle. High-density lipoproteins, low-density lipoproteins, and very low-density lipoproteins are the three types of particles assessed with a lipid profile. 

It's critical to keep track of and maintain optimal levels of these lipids in order to stay healthy. While the body creates the cholesterol required for normal function, some cholesterol is obtained from the diet. A high amount of cholesterol in the blood can be caused by eating too many foods high in saturated fats and trans fats or having a hereditary tendency. The excess cholesterol may form plaques on the inside walls of blood vessels. Plaques can constrict or block blood channel openings, causing artery hardening and raising the risk of a variety of health problems, including heart disease and stroke. Although the explanation for this is unknown, a high level of triglycerides in the blood is linked to an increased risk of developing cardiovascular disease. 

A lipid profile consists of the following elements: 

• Cholesterol total 
• HDL Cholesterol -?commonly referred to as "good cholesterol" since it eliminates excess cholesterol from the body and transports it to the liver for elimination. 
• LDL Cholesterol -?commonly referred to as "bad cholesterol" because it deposits excess cholesterol in the walls of blood arteries, contributing to atherosclerosis. 
• Triglycerides 

Lab tests often ordered with a Lipid Panel test:

A Lipid Panel test is commonly ordered for:

1. Hyperlipidemia: Lipid Panel tests are used to diagnose and monitor conditions like high cholesterol (hypercholesterolemia) or high triglycerides (hypertriglyceridemia).

2. Cardiovascular Disease: Individuals with a history of cardiovascular diseases, heart attacks, or strokes require Lipid Panel tests to assess their lipid levels and monitor their cardiovascular risk.

3. Metabolic Syndrome: Lipid Panel tests help evaluate lipid abnormalities associated with metabolic syndrome, a cluster of conditions including high blood pressure, high blood sugar, excess body fat around the waist, and abnormal lipid levels.

Conditions where a Lipid Panel test is recommended:

• Hypertension
• Cardiovascular Disease
• Heart Disease
• Stroke

Commonly Asked Questions: 

How does my health care provider use a Lipid Panel test? 

Healthcare providers use the results of a Lipid Panel test to:

1. Assess Cardiovascular Risk: Lipid Panel results provide information about a patient's cholesterol, HDL, LDL, and triglyceride levels, helping healthcare providers assess the patient's risk for cardiovascular diseases and determine appropriate interventions or treatments.

2. Guide Treatment and Lifestyle Interventions: If abnormal lipid levels are detected, healthcare providers may recommend lifestyle modifications such as dietary changes, exercise, and weight loss. Medications may also be prescribed to manage lipid disorders and reduce the risk of cardiovascular events.

3. Monitor Treatment Effectiveness: Regular Lipid Panel tests allow healthcare providers to monitor the effectiveness of lipid-lowering treatments, such as statins, and make necessary adjustments to optimize patient care and reduce cardiovascular risk.

By effectively utilizing the results of a Lipid Panel test, healthcare providers can assess cardiovascular risk, guide treatment decisions, and help patients manage their lipid levels to reduce the risk of heart disease and related complications.

What do my Lipid Panel test results mean? 

Healthy lipid levels, in general, aid in the maintenance of a healthy heart and reduce the risk of heart attack or stroke. A health practitioner would analyze the results of each component of a lipid profile, as well as other risk factors, to assess a person's total risk of coronary heart disease, if therapy is required, and, if so, which treatment will best serve to reduce the person's risk of heart disease. 

The Adult Treatment Panel III of the National Cholesterol Education Program published guidelines for measuring lipid levels and selecting treatment in 2002. The American College of Cardiology and the American Heart Association announced updated cholesterol therapy guidelines in 2013 to minimize the risk of cardiovascular disease in adults. These guidelines suggest a different treatment method than the NCEP guidelines. Cholesterol-lowering medications are now chosen based on the 10-year risk of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease and other criteria, rather than on LDL Cholesterol or non-HDL Cholesterol objectives. 

The revised guidelines include an evidence-based risk calculator for ASCVD that may be used to identify people who are most likely to benefit from treatment. It's for adults between the ages of 40 and 79 who don't have a heart condition. The computation takes into account a number of characteristics, including age, gender, race, total cholesterol, HDL Cholesterol, blood pressure, diabetes, and smoking habits. The new guidelines also suggest comparing therapeutic response to LDL Cholesterol baseline readings, with decrease criteria varying depending on the degree of lipid-lowering medication therapy. 

Unhealthy lipid levels, as well as the presence of additional risk factors like age, family history, cigarette smoking, diabetes, and high blood pressure, may indicate that the person being examined needs to be treated. 

The NCEP Adult Treatment Panel III guidelines specify target LDL cholesterol levels based on the findings of lipid testing and these other main risk factors. Individuals with LDL Cholesterol levels over the target limits will be treated, according to the guidelines. 

According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, screening youths with risk factors for heart disease with a full, fasting lipid panel is advised. Fasting is not required prior to lipid screening in children who do not have any risk factors. For non-fasting lipid screening, non-high-density lipoprotein cholesterol is the preferred test. Non HDL Cholesterol is computed by subtracting total cholesterol and HDL Cholesterol from total cholesterol and HDL Cholesterol. 

Is there anything else I should know? 

The measurement of triglycerides in people who haven't fasted is gaining popularity. Because most of the day, blood lipid levels reflect post-meal levels rather than fasting levels, a non-fasting sample may be more representative of the "usual" circulating level of triglyceride. However, because it is still unclear how to interpret non-fasting levels for assessing risk, the current recommendations for fasting before lipid tests remain unchanged. 

A fasting lipid profile is usually included in a routine cardiac risk assessment. In addition, research into the utility of additional non-traditional cardiac risk markers, such as Lp-PLA2, is ongoing. A health care provider may use one or more of these markers to help determine a person's risk, but there is no consensus on how to use them and they are not widely available. 

We advise having your results reviewed by a licensed medical healthcare professional for proper interpretation of your results.

Description: The PSA Total test measures the levels of prostate-specific antigen (PSA) in the blood. PSA is a protein produced by the cells of the prostate gland. The PSA Total test is commonly used as a screening tool for prostate cancer and to monitor the progression of the disease. It provides valuable information about prostate health and helps detect potential abnormalities.

There are two types of PSA, complex and free, and this test will measure the total sum of both. This test does not specify how much of each. If a measure of each amount is desired the test PSA, Free and Total #31348 will be able to differentiate between each one.

Also Known As: Prostate Specific Antigen Test, PSA Test, Prostate test

Collection Method: Blood Draw

Specimen Type: Serum

Test Preparation: No preparation required

Average Processing Time: 1 to 2 days

When is a PSA Total test ordered?

A PSA Total test may be ordered in several situations to assess prostate health:

1. Prostate Cancer Screening: The test is commonly used as a screening tool for prostate cancer in men. It is often recommended for individuals over a certain age or those with risk factors such as a family history of prostate cancer.

2. Monitoring Prostate Cancer: For individuals diagnosed with prostate cancer, the PSA Total test is ordered to monitor the progression of the disease, assess treatment effectiveness, and detect potential recurrence.

3. Evaluation of Prostate Disorders: The test may be ordered to assess prostate health and investigate potential conditions such as benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), prostatitis (inflammation of the prostate), or other prostate-related disorders.

What does a PSA Total blood test check for?

PSA is a protein produced predominantly by cells in the prostate, a tiny gland that surrounds the urethra in males and generates a fluid that is a component of semen. The majority of PSA produced by the prostate is discharged into this fluid, but minor amounts can also be found in the bloodstream. This test determines how much PSA is present in the blood.

The PSA test is used to screen for and monitor prostate cancer as a tumor marker. It's a good tool, but it's not perfect, and most experts agree that asymptomatic men should only be screened after having a detailed discussion with their healthcare professionals about the benefits and dangers, and after making an informed decision to do so. PSA levels that are high are linked to prostate cancer, but they can also indicate prostatitis or benign prostatic hyperplasia. PSA levels rise with age in all men, but men of African American ancestry may have greater levels than other men, even at a younger age.

PSA is not a cancer indicator. The prostate biopsy, which involves taking small samples of prostate tissue and examining them under a microscope for abnormal cells, is the gold standard for detecting prostate cancer. The total PSA test and the digital rectal exam are used to evaluate whether a prostate biopsy is necessary.

The purpose of prostate cancer screening is to discover the disease when it is still contained within the prostate. Once the diagnosis of prostate cancer has been verified by biopsy, a treatment decision must be determined. As men get older, prostate cancer becomes more common, and many, if not all, of the tumors are slow-growing. While prostate cancer is the second leading cause of mortality in men, slow-growing prostate cancer is a rare cause of death. A pathologist may be able to tell the difference between cancers that grow slowly and spread to other regions of the body and cancers that grow quickly and spread to other parts of the body.

Overdiagnosis and overtreatment are two challenges that health professionals are currently dealing with. In certain situations, the treatment is worse than the cancer, with substantial side effects including as incontinence and erectile dysfunction possible. In general, neither the PSA test nor the DRE can indicate how a person's condition will progress.

In the blood, PSA is found in two forms: complexed and free. The total PSA test, which analyzes the sum of complexed and free PSA in the blood, is the most often used PSA test.

When the total PSA is only slightly raised, the free PSA test is occasionally used to help assess whether a biopsy should be performed. PSA is an enzyme, and when it is released into the bloodstream, some circulating proteins link to it and inactivate it. In BPH, benign prostate cells produce PSA that is not active, whereas malignant prostate cells produce PSA that is already protein-bound.

As a result, men with BPH tend to have greater levels of free PSA, while men with prostate cancer have lower levels. Even if total PSA is not dramatically raised, a relatively low amount of free PSA raises the chances of cancer.

Lab tests often ordered with a PSA Total test:

• CEA
• Tumor Markers

Conditions where a PSA Total test is recommended:

A PSA Total test is commonly ordered for:

1. Prostate Cancer Screening: The test is used as a screening tool for prostate cancer, especially in individuals at higher risk or of a certain age.

2. Monitoring Prostate Cancer: The PSA Total test helps monitor the progression of prostate cancer, assess treatment effectiveness, and detect potential recurrence.

3. Evaluation of Prostate Disorders: The test aids in evaluating prostate health and investigating conditions such as benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), prostatitis, or other prostate-related disorders.

Commonly Asked Questions:

How does my health care provider use a PSA Total test?

Healthcare providers use the results of a PSA Total test to:

1. Screen for Prostate Cancer: Elevated PSA Total levels may indicate the presence of prostate cancer or other prostate conditions, prompting further investigations or referrals for a prostate biopsy.

2. Monitor Prostate Cancer: The test helps monitor PSA levels in individuals diagnosed with prostate cancer, assisting in treatment decisions, evaluating treatment response, and detecting potential recurrence.

3. Assess Prostate Health: The PSA Total test aids in assessing overall prostate health and provides valuable information for the diagnosis and management of prostate-related conditions.

By effectively utilizing the results of a PSA Total test, healthcare providers can screen for prostate cancer, monitor prostate health, make informed decisions regarding patient care, and guide further diagnostic evaluations or treatments as necessary.

What do my PSA Total test results mean?

PSA test results can be interpreted in a variety of ways, and the cutoff values used by different laboratories may differ.

Total PSA levels below 4.0 ng/ml are considered unlikely to indicate the existence of prostate cancer. Some argue that this limit should be reduced to 2.5 ng/ml in order to detect more prostate cancer cases. Others contend that this might result in more malignancies being diagnosed and treated that aren't clinically important.

Men with a total PSA level of more than 10.0 ng/ml are thought to be at a higher risk of prostate cancer.

Total PSA readings of 4.0 to 10.0 ng/ml may suggest prostate cancer, benign prostatic hyperplasia, or prostate inflammation. These problems, as well as an increase in PSA levels, are more common among the elderly. The "gray zone" is defined as total PSA levels between 4.0 and 10.0 ng/ml. The free PSA may be beneficial in this range.

Prostate cancers produce primarily complexed PSA rather than free PSA. Prostate cancer cells create more free PSA, which does not bind to proteins. As a result, when men in the gray zone have lower levels of free PSA, they have higher levels of cPSA and a higher risk of prostate cancer. When individuals have high amounts of free PSA but low cPSA, however, the danger is reduced. The ratio of free to total PSA can assist the patient and his healthcare professional in determining whether or not a prostate biopsy is necessary.

Additional analyses of PSA test results are occasionally utilized to improve the total PSA's efficacy as a screening tool. They are as follows:

• PSA velocity is the rate at which PSA concentrations fluctuate over time; if the PSA continues to climb rapidly over time, prostate cancer is more likely. If it rises quickly, the patient may be suffering from a more aggressive kind of cancer.
• PSA doubling time is a kind of PSA velocity that quantifies the rate at which the PSA concentration doubles.
• PSA density is a comparison of PSA concentration and prostate volume; if the PSA level is higher than one would predict given the size of the prostate, the likelihood of cancer is higher.
• PSA ranges adapted to a man's age—Because PSA values typically rise with age, it has been advocated that normal ranges be customized to a man's age.

The PSA level should start to drop with prostate cancer treatment, and should be very low or undetectable at the end of treatment. If concentrations do not drop to extremely low levels, the treatment is ineffective. Following treatment, the PSA test is repeated at regular intervals to check for recurrence of cancer. Because even small increases can be important, persons who are impacted should have their monitoring PSA tests done by the same laboratory each time to reduce testing variation.

A test known as "ultrasensitive PSA" may be helpful in detecting cancer persistence or recurrence after therapy. PSA is detected at significantly lower levels in this test than in regular PSA tests. Increases in PSA related to the persistence or return of cancer, it has been proposed, can be detected much sooner using this test. The results of this test, however, should be regarded with caution. Because the test is so sensitive, even when no cancer is present, minor rises in PSA levels can occur from one time to the next.

Is there anything else I should know about the Prostate Specific Antigen Total test?

The blood sample is normally taken before the DRE since the DRE can induce a brief increase in PSA.

PSA levels will be dramatically elevated following prostate procedure such as biopsy or excision. Before surgery or six weeks after manipulation, a blood test should be performed.

A brief increase in PSA level can be caused by strenuous physical activity that affects the prostate, such as cycling. Ejaculation within 24 hours of a PSA test can result in higher PSA values, thus it's best to avoid it.

Some chemotherapy medicines, such as cyclophosphamide and methotrexate, can raise or lower PSA levels in high dosages.

PSA levels may briefly rise in some men as a result of other prostate problems, particularly infection. According to a research, nearly half of men with high PSA levels saw their levels return to normal after a period of time. Before taking any further action, several authorities urge that a high PSA be repeated between 6 weeks and 3 months following the initial high PSA. If there is indication that the prostate is infected, some doctors will prescribe antibiotics.

We advise having your results reviewed by a licensed medical healthcare professional for proper interpretation of your results.

Description: A Urinalysis complete test is a urine test that is used to screen for, diagnose, and monitor a variety of conditions and diseases urinary tract infections and kidney disorders.

Also Known As: Urine Test, Urine Analysis Test, UA Test, urine microscopic examination Test, Urinalysis Test, Complete Urinalysis Test

Collection Method: Urine Collection

Specimen Type: Urine

Test Preparation: No preparation required

Average Processing Time: 1 to 2 days

When is a Urinalysis Complete test ordered?

A urinalysis test may be ordered when a person undergoes a routine wellness examination, is admitted into a hospital, will have surgery, or is having a prenatal checkup.

When a person visits a doctor with symptoms of a urinary tract infection or another urinary system ailment, such as kidney disease, a urinalysis will almost certainly be prescribed. The following are some possible signs and symptoms:

• Pain in the abdomen
• Backache
• Urination that is painful or occurs frequently
• Urine with blood in it

Testing may also be conducted at regular intervals to track the progress of a condition.

What does a Urinalysis Complete test check for?

A urinalysis is a series of examinations done on urine that are physical, chemical, and microscopic. The tests identify and/or measure a number of elements in the urine, including cells, cellular fragments, and microbes. These elements include byproducts of healthy and unhealthy metabolism.

Urine is produced by the kidneys, two fist-sized organs located on either side of the spine near the base of the rib cage. The kidneys help the body regulate its water balance, filter wastes from the blood, and store proteins, electrolytes, and other molecules for later use. To get rid of everything unnecessary, urine travels from the kidneys to the ureters, bladder, and urethra before exiting the body. The color, amount, concentration, and content of urine will change slightly every time a person urinates due to the varied elements in urine, despite the fact that pee is normally yellow and clear.

By screening for components in the urine that aren't typically present and/or monitoring aberrant levels of specific substances, many illnesses can be caught early on. Glucose, bilirubin, protein, red and white blood cells, crystals, and germs are among examples. They could be present because of the following reasons:

• The body responds to an elevated amount of the substance in the blood by attempting to remove the excess through urine.
• There is a problem with the kidneys.
• As with bacteria and white blood cells, there is a urinary tract infection present.

Three separate phases make up a full urinalysis:

• The color and clarity of the urine are assessed using a visual examination.
• Chemical examination, which determines the concentration of urine and tests for roughly 9 chemicals that provide useful information about health and disease.
• Microscopic inspection that identifies and counts the different types of cells, casts, crystals, and other components found in urine, such as bacteria and mucus.

When abnormal results are found, or if a healthcare provider requests it, a microscopic analysis is usually performed.

It may be essential to repeat the test if the findings of a urinalysis are abnormal, and further other urine and blood tests may be needed to help establish a diagnosis, if the results are abnormal.

Lab tests often ordered with a Urinalysis Complete test:

• Complete Blood Count
• Iron Total and Total Iron binding capacity
• Hemoglobin A1c
• Lipid Panel
• CMP
• TSH
• Urine Culture
• Bilirubin Fractionated
• Glucose

Conditions where a Urinalysis Complete test is recommended:

• Diabetes
• Kidney Disease
• Liver Disease
• Hypertension
• Pregnancy
• Hematuria
• Proteinuria
• Kidney Stones

How does my health care provider use a Urinalysis Complete test?

A urinalysis is a series of tests that can diagnose a variety of disorders. It can be used to screen for and/or diagnose a variety of illnesses, including urinary tract infections, renal abnormalities, liver diseases, diabetes, and other metabolic disorders, to name a few.

Urinalysis may be used in conjunction with other tests, such as urine albumin, to monitor the progress of treatment in patients with diseases or conditions like diabetes or kidney disease.

What do my urinalysis complete test results mean?

There are numerous ways to interpret the results of a urinalysis. Unusual results are a warning sign that something isn't right and needs further testing.  To connect the urinalysis results with an individual's symptoms and clinical findings and to look for the causes of aberrant findings, other targeted tests must be done, such as a complete blood count, metabolic panel, or urine culture.

It is more likely that a problem must be addressed the higher the concentration of the atypical component, such as noticeably increased levels of protein, glucose, or red blood cells. On the other hand, the outcomes do not inform the medical professional as to what led to the finding or whether it is a transient or ongoing sickness.

A normal urinalysis does not rule out the possibility of disease. Early in a disease process, some persons will not release elevated amounts of a drug, and others will release them irregularly throughout the day, which means they could be overlooked by a single urine sample. Small amounts of substances may be undetectable in very dilute urine.

NOTE: Only measurable biomarkers will be reported.

We advise having your results reviewed by a licensed medical healthcare professional for proper interpretation of your results.