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Blood tests can help diagnose medical conditions such as anemia, leukemia, and bacterial infections. A complete blood count measures red and white blood cell counts, hemoglobin, platelets, and hematocrit levels. A chemistry panel can detect liver, kidney, or thyroid gland problems, electrolyte imbalances, and pancreatic problems. Other blood panels may be prescribed for specific cases.
A doctor may order a blood test as part of a routine exam or to help confirm a suspected diagnosis. A basic blood test may be done to check for medical conditions such as anemia, leukemia, or the presence of a bacterial infection. A chemistry panel is a more detailed type of blood panel and can be used to detect liver, kidney, or thyroid gland problems. Electrolytes, metabolism, and pancreatic problems can also be tested through the use of the chemistry panel.
A complete blood count is the name of the most common blood panel ordered by doctors. This blood test checks red and white blood cell counts and measures hemoglobin, platelets, and hematocrit levels. These tests are often routinely performed once or twice a year, although they may also be indicated if certain diseases are suspected.
Red blood cell and white blood cell counts are tested by the use of a routine blood panel. A high red blood cell count can indicate heart or lung disease, anabolic steroid use, or dehydration. A low red blood cell count typically indicates a condition known as anemia, caused by insufficient oxygen levels. Low hematocrit levels can suggest internal bleeding or bleeding somewhere in the body and often require further testing.
Platelets are responsible for blood clotting and help prevent excessive bleeding when an injury occurs that results in blood loss. Elevated platelet levels may be harmless or may indicate the presence of a serious medical condition called myeloproliferative disorder. Decreased platelets can be caused by leukemia, lupus, or kidney disease.
A doctor may order a chemistry panel to test for serious illnesses such as liver or kidney failure, electrolyte imbalances, or thyroid problems. If kidney problems are suspected, this blood test may be used to check levels of creatinine or blood urea nitrogen. The liver panel monitors bilirubin, protein, and albumin. Sodium, potassium, and calcium levels are tested using an electrolyte panel. Thyroid hormones can be checked to help diagnose conditions such as hypothyroidism.
In specific cases, a doctor may prescribe other types of blood panels. Fertility panels can be done to evaluate reproductive health issues. More extensive blood tests may be done to check for cancer or heart problems or to confirm the results of other blood tests. Any questions or concerns about a specific type of blood panel should be discussed with a doctor or other medical professional.
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