Basic

Anemia is a condition where there is a lack of healthy red blood cells or hemoglobin, leading to reduced oxygen delivery to tissues.Thalassemia is a genetic blood disorder that causes abnormal hemoglobin production, resulting in anemia of varying severity.

These tests are used to: Diagnose anemia or thalassemia. Determine the severity and cause of anemia (e.g., iron deficiency or chronic inflammation). Identify carrier states or genetic variants of thalassemia.

Complete Blood Count (CBC): Assesses hemoglobin, hematocrit, RBC size, and distribution. 

Erythrocyte Sedimentation Rate (ESR): Identifies inflammation that may contribute to anemia. 

Iron Profile: Includes serum iron, ferritin, transferrin saturation, and total iron-binding capacity (TIBC). 

Hb Electrophoresis: Detects abnormal hemoglobin types, useful for thalassemia diagnosis.

CBC & ESR: No special preparation required. 

Iron Profile: Fasting for 8-10 hours is recommended for accurate results. 

Hb Electrophoresis: No preparation is required.

CBC and ESR: 1-2 hours. 

Iron Profile: 6-8 hours. 

Hb Electrophoresis: 24-48 hours.

Common symptoms of anemia and thalassemia include: 

Fatigue and weakness.

Pale or yellowish skin. 

Shortness of breath. 

Dizziness. 

Slow growth in children or delayed puberty.

Anemia: Treatment depends on the cause and may include iron supplements, dietary changes, or managing underlying conditions. 

Thalassemia: Management includes regular blood transfusions, iron chelation therapy, and sometimes bone marrow transplants for severe cases.

Yes, these are standard blood tests that are safe with minimal risks, such as minor bruising at the site of the blood draw.

Anemia: Preventable through a balanced diet rich in iron, folate, and vitamin B12. 

Thalassemia: Being a genetic condition, it cannot be prevented. Genetic counseling is recommended for those with a family history.

Abnormal results in CBC (e.g., low hemoglobin or hematocrit) suggest anemia. 

Low serum iron or ferritin indicates iron deficiency.

 Hb Electrophoresis showing abnormal hemoglobin types confirms thalassemia or sickle cell anemia. Always consult a physician for proper diagnosis and treatment planning.

A Bone Health Panel evaluates markers related to bone density, strength, and metabolism to assess overall bone health and identify potential conditions like osteoporosis or vitamin D deficiency.

Calcium: To evaluate bone strength. Vitamin D: For calcium absorption and bone growth. Alkaline Phosphatase (ALP): To detect bone disorders or fractures. Phosphorus: Works with calcium to maintain strong bones. Parathyroid Hormone (PTH): Regulates calcium and bone metabolism.

Postmenopausal women at risk for osteoporosis. Individuals with chronic vitamin D or calcium deficiency. Patients with unexplained bone pain, fractures, or metabolic disorders.

Fasting is not generally required, but follow your doctor's instructions, especially for vitamin D or calcium tests.

Results are typically available within 4-8 hours, depending on the lab.

High Calcium or ALP: Suggests conditions like hyperparathyroidism or Paget's disease. Low Vitamin D: Indicates deficiency leading to weak bones or rickets. Abnormal PTH Levels: May signal parathyroid gland issues or kidney disease.

It helps in the early detection of bone disorders, monitoring treatment efficacy, and guiding dietary or lifestyle adjustments to maintain bone health.

Yes, medications like steroids, antiepileptics, or diuretics can influence calcium, vitamin D, or phosphorus levels. Inform your doctor of any ongoing treatments.

Increase calcium-rich foods (e.g., dairy, leafy greens). Include sources of vitamin D (e.g., fatty fish, sunlight). Limit excessive caffeine or alcohol intake, as these can weaken bones.

Routine screenings are advised for adults over 50, especially postmenopausal women. Patients with known bone conditions should follow their doctor's guidance for frequency.

Diabetes is a chronic condition where the body cannot effectively regulate blood sugar levels. FBS measures blood sugar after fasting, helping to diagnose diabetes. PPBS assesses blood sugar two hours after eating, indicating how the body processes glucose post-meal. HbA1c reflects average blood sugar levels over the past 2–3 months, helping monitor long-term control.

FBS: Requires fasting for 8-12 hours. Only water is allowed during fasting. 

PPBS: You will need to eat a regular meal and have blood drawn 2 hours afterward. 

HbA1c: No fasting or preparation is required.

FBS and PPBS: Reports are typically available within 1-2 hours.

HbA1c: Results may take 4–6 hours, depending on the lab.

FBS: 70-99 mg/dL (normal), 100-125 mg/dL (pre-diabetes), >= 126 mg/dL (diabetes).

PPBS: <140 mg/dL (normal), 140-199 mg/dL (pre-diabetes), >= 200 mg/dL (diabetes). 

HbA1c: <5.7% (normal), 5.7-6.4% (pre-diabetes), >= 6.5% (diabetes).

Symptoms include: 

Increased thirst and frequent urination. 

Unexplained weight loss.

Fatigue. 

Blurred vision. 

Slow-healing sores or frequent infections.

FBS evaluates baseline glucose levels without food influence. 

PPBS shows how well your body manages glucose after eating.

HbA1c provides a long-term average, unaffected by daily fluctuations

Yes. Regular testing helps assess the effectiveness of lifestyle changes, medications, and insulin therapy. HbA1c is especially critical for long-term management.

Yes, results can vary due to: Fasting not done properly for FBS. Meals or snacks consumed within 2 hours before PPBS. Certain medications, stress, or illness affecting blood sugar levels.

Yes, they are standard blood tests with minimal risks, such as slight discomfort or bruising at the site of blood collection.

Consult with a healthcare professional to confirm the diagnosis. They may recommend: Lifestyle changes like a healthier diet and regular exercise. Medications such as metformin or insulin, based on severity. Regular monitoring through glucose tests and follow-ups.

Lipid Profile: Measures cholesterol and triglyceride levels to assess heart disease risk. 

Cardiac Biomarkers: Help detect heart muscle damage, blood clotting, or inflammation related to heart attack or other cardiovascular conditions.

A standard Lipid Profile includes: Total Cholesterol. Low-Density Lipoprotein (LDL, "bad" cholesterol). High-Density Lipoprotein (HDL, "good" cholesterol). Triglycerides. LDL/HDL ratio or non-HDL cholesterol (in some cases).

HS-CRP: Indicates inflammation linked to heart disease. 

Apo A/B: Evaluates the balance between protective (A) and harmful (B) lipoproteins. 

CPK (Creatine Phosphokinase): Detects muscle damage, including heart muscle. 

D-Dimer: Identifies blood clots, helping diagnose conditions like deep vein thrombosis or pulmonary embolism. 

Homocysteine: High levels suggest an increased risk of atherosclerosis or blood clots.

Lipid Profile: Fasting for 9-12 hours is required (only water allowed). 

Cardiac Biomarkers: No fasting is needed for most biomarkers, but follow any specific instructions provided by your doctor.

Lipid Profile: Reports are typically available within 1-2 hours. 

Cardiac Biomarkers: Results for HS-CRP, Apo A/B, and CPK are usually available within 4-6 hours, while D-Dimer and Homocysteine may take a full day depending on the lab.

Individuals with risk factors like obesity, high blood pressure, or diabetes. People with a family history of heart disease or high cholesterol. Patients experiencing symptoms like chest pain, fatigue, or shortness of breath.

Lipid Profile: 

High LDL or triglycerides and low HDL may indicate an increased risk of heart disease. 

Cardiac Biomarkers: 

Elevated HS-CRP suggests inflammation or heart disease.

High D-Dimer levels may point to clotting disorders. 

Increased Homocysteine levels suggest vascular risk.

Lipid Profile is recommended for routine cardiovascular screening starting in adults aged 20+ or earlier for those with risk factors. Cardiac Biomarkers are typically ordered when symptoms of a heart condition or specific risks are present.

Yes, they are simple blood tests with minimal risks like mild bruising or discomfort at the blood draw site.

Yes, these tests help doctors: Adjust diet, exercise, or medication to manage cholesterol. Determine the need for anticoagulants, anti-inflammatory drugs, or lifestyle changes to lower cardiovascular risk.

LFT assesses the health and functioning of the liver by measuring levels of enzymes, proteins, and substances like bilirubin in the blood.

Enzymes: ALT (SGPT), AST (SGOT), Alkaline Phosphatase (ALP), Gamma-Glutamyl Transferase (GGT). Bilirubin: Total, Direct, Indirect. Proteins: Albumin, Globulin, Total Protein, and A/G Ratio.

People with symptoms of liver disease (e.g., jaundice, abdominal pain, fatigue). Those at risk of liver damage due to alcohol use, medications, or hepatitis. Routine check-ups for individuals with existing liver conditions or metabolic diseases.

Yes, fasting for 8-10 hours is generally recommended to avoid interference from recent meals with bilirubin and protein levels.

Most labs provide LFT results within 2-4 hours, but some parameters may take longer depending on the facility.

Elevated ALT/AST: May indicate liver inflammation or damage (e.g., hepatitis, fatty liver). High Bilirubin: Suggests jaundice, bile duct obstruction, or hemolysis. Low Albumin: Points to liver disease, malnutrition, or kidney issues.

LFTs are screening tools and indicate liver dysfunction. Further tests like imaging or biopsy may be needed for a definitive diagnosis.

It is a safe blood test with minimal risks, such as slight discomfort or bruising at the site of blood collection.

Yes, certain medications like statins, antibiotics, or anti-seizure drugs may elevate liver enzyme levels. Inform your doctor about any medicines you are taking.

Routine health check-ups: Once a year for adults at low risk. Chronic liver disease: As directed by a doctor, typically every 3-6 months.

RFT evaluates how well your kidneys are working by measuring levels of waste products, electrolytes, and proteins in your blood and urine.

Blood Parameters: Serum Creatinine, Blood Urea Nitrogen (BUN), eGFR (estimated Glomerular Filtration Rate). 

Electrolytes: Serum Sodium (S.Na), Potassium (S.K), Chloride (S.Cl). 

Other Tests: Uric Acid, Serum Albumin.

Individuals with symptoms of kidney issues (e.g., swelling, high blood pressure, frequent urination). Those with conditions like diabetes, hypertension, or urinary tract infections (UTIs). People taking medications that may affect kidney function.

Fasting is not typically required for RFT, but some labs may suggest fasting to standardize results. Follow your doctor's instructions.

Most RFT results are available within 4-6 hours. Some specialized tests may take longer depending on the lab.

High Creatinine/BUN: Suggests kidney dysfunction or reduced filtration. Electrolyte Imbalances: Indicate dehydration, kidney failure, or medication side effects. Low eGFR: Points to chronic kidney disease (CKD) or acute kidney injury.

Avoid heavy physical activity before the test to prevent creatinine fluctuations. Inform your doctor of any medications, especially diuretics or supplements, as they may affect results.

Yes, dehydration can elevate levels of BUN and creatinine, potentially leading to misleading results.

RFTs help detect early signs of kidney dysfunction but are not definitive. Additional tests like imaging (e.g., ultrasound) or kidney biopsy may be required.

Annually for individuals with risk factors like diabetes, hypertension, or a family history of kidney disease. As recommended by a doctor for those with existing kidney conditions or undergoing treatment with nephrotoxic medications.

TFTs evaluate the functioning of the thyroid gland by measuring hormones like Thyroid-Stimulating Hormone (TSH), Triiodothyronine (T3), and Thyroxine (T4).

Hypothyroidism: Low thyroid hormone levels causing fatigue, weight gain, and cold sensitivity. 

Hyperthyroidism: Excess thyroid hormones causing weight loss, nervousness, and palpitations. 

Thyroiditis: Inflammation of the thyroid gland.

TSH (Thyroid Stimulating Hormone): Regulates thyroid activity. T3 (Triiodothyronine): Active form of thyroid hormone. T4 (Thyroxine): A precursor hormone converted to T3. Thyroid Antibodies (optional): Helps diagnose autoimmune thyroid conditions like Hashimoto's or Graves?? disease.

TSH is highly sensitive to changes in thyroid function and is typically the first test to indicate an underactive or overactive thyroid.

Fasting is not necessary for TSH, T3, or T4 tests. However, follow your doctor's instructions, especially if additional fasting tests are ordered.

Most thyroid test results are available within 4-6 hours.

Medications like steroids, birth control pills, or biotin supplements. Pregnancy, which can naturally alter hormone levels. Illness or stress.

Annually for individuals with a family history of thyroid disorders or existing thyroid conditions. As recommended by a doctor for monitoring treatment or symptoms.

Hypothyroidism: Fatigue, dry skin, hair loss, and constipation. Hyperthyroidism: Tremors, increased heart rate, sweating, and weight loss.

Hypothyroidism: Managed with hormone replacement therapy (e.g., levothyroxine). Hyperthyroidism: Treated with anti-thyroid medications, radioactive iodine, or surgery, depending on severity.

Urine R&M (Routine and Microscopic) is a test that examines the physical, chemical, and microscopic characteristics of urine. It helps in detecting abnormalities like infections, kidney problems, or other diseases.

Urine Microalbuminuria measures the small amounts of albumin (a protein) in the urine, which can be an early sign of kidney damage, particularly in people with diabetes or high blood pressure.

What are the common conditions detected by Urine R&M? Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs) Kidney disease Bladder disorders Diabetes-related kidney damage

It is a crucial test to detect early kidney damage, especially in diabetic patients. Microalbuminuria may be the first sign of kidney disease, and timely intervention can prevent further damage.

Painful urination Frequent urination Blood in the urine Swelling in the body (legs, face) Unexplained fatigue

No, fasting is not typically required for these urine tests. However, its best to follow specific instructions provided by your healthcare provider.

Ensure you provide a midstream clean-catch sample of urine to avoid contamination. For Microalbuminuria, a 24-hour urine collection or a first-morning urine sample may be recommended.

Results for Urine R&M are usually available within 24 hours, while Microalbuminuria results may take 1-2 days depending on the lab.

Yes, temporary factors like dehydration, stress, or a recent infection can cause abnormalities in urine. However, persistently abnormal results should be evaluated further by a healthcare provider.

Urine R&M: The presence of red or white blood cells, bacteria, and other substances may indicate infections, kidney problems, or other disorders. Microalbuminuria: Elevated albumin levels may indicate early-stage kidney disease, especially in people with diabetes or hypertension.