CBC (Complete Blood Count):

• Who should get this test: Patients experiencing symptoms like fatigue, weakness, or unexplained weight loss, those undergoing routine health check-ups, individuals with known blood disorders, or those on medications affecting blood cells.

• What's included in the test:

• • White Blood Cell Count (WBC)

  • Red Blood Cell Count (RBC)

  • Hemoglobin (Hgb) and Hematocrit (Hct)

  • Platelet Count

  • Mean Corpuscular Volume (MCV)

  • Mean Corpuscular Hemoglobin (MCH) and Mean Corpuscular Hemoglobin Concentration (MCHC)

  • Red Cell Distribution Width (RDW)

• Why someone would check this test: To screen for or diagnose blood disorders (e.g., anemia, infections, leukemia), monitor treatment effects (e.g., chemotherapy, blood transfusions), assess overall health, or evaluate medication responses.

 CMP (Comprehensive Metabolic Panel):

• Who should get this test: Patients undergoing routine health check-ups, individuals with symptoms like fatigue, weakness, or abdominal pain, those with known or suspected liver or kidney disease, or individuals on medications that may affect these organs.

• What's included in the test:

• • Glucose: Measures blood sugar levels.

  • Electrolytes (Sodium, Potassium, Chloride, Carbon Dioxide): Regulate fluid balance, nerve function, and muscle contraction.

  • Kidney Function Tests (Creatinine, Blood Urea Nitrogen): Assess kidney function and detect kidney disease.

  • Liver Function Tests (Total Protein, Albumin, Bilirubin, Alkaline Phosphatase, ALT, AST): Evaluate liver function and detect liver damage or disease.

• Why someone would check this test: To assess overall health, screen for or diagnose conditions affecting the liver or kidneys (e.g., liver disease, kidney disease, diabetes), monitor the effects of medications, or evaluate electrolyte imbalances.

Testosterone Blood Test:

• Who should get this test: Patients experiencing symptoms of low testosterone such as decreased libido, erectile dysfunction, fatigue, decreased muscle mass, or mood changes, individuals with risk factors for low testosterone like aging, obesity, diabetes, or certain medical conditions affecting the hypothalamus, pituitary gland, or testes.

• What's included in the test: The Testosterone test measures the levels of testosterone, a hormone important for sexual development, muscle strength, bone density, and overall health. Low levels of testosterone can indicate hypogonadism, while high levels may suggest certain medical conditions like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) in women or testosterone supplementation in men.

• Why someone would check this test: To diagnose low testosterone or hypogonadism, monitor testosterone levels in those undergoing testosterone replacement therapy, investigate symptoms of sexual dysfunction or changes in libido, evaluate infertility or menstrual irregularities, or assess the underlying cause of certain medical conditions such as hypopituitarism, testicular disorders, or adrenal gland disorders.

Cholesterol Panel (Lipid Profile):

• Who should get this test: Patients with risk factors for heart disease, such as high blood pressure, diabetes, obesity, a family history of heart disease, or those with unhealthy lifestyle habits like smoking or poor diet.

• What's included in the test:

• • Total cholesterol: Measures the total amount of cholesterol in your blood.

  • LDL cholesterol (low-density lipoprotein): Often called "bad" cholesterol, it can build up in the walls of arteries and increase the risk of heart disease.

  • HDL cholesterol (high-density lipoprotein): Known as "good" cholesterol, it helps remove LDL cholesterol from the bloodstream.

  • Triglycerides: A type of fat in the blood that can also increase the risk of heart disease if levels are too high.

• Why someone would check this test: To assess the risk of heart disease or stroke, monitor cholesterol levels in those with known heart disease or risk factors, guide lifestyle and dietary interventions, or evaluate the effectiveness of cholesterol-lowering medications.

Thyroid Stimulating Hormone (TSH) Blood Test:

• Who should get this test: Patients experiencing symptoms of thyroid dysfunction such as fatigue, weight changes, hair loss, or changes in mood, women with fertility issues or irregular menstrual cycles, individuals with a family history of thyroid disorders, or those with certain medical conditions like diabetes or autoimmune diseases.

• What's included in the test: Thyroid Stimulating Hormone (TSH) is measured to assess thyroid function. High TSH levels indicate an underactive thyroid (hypothyroidism), while low levels suggest an overactive thyroid (hyperthyroidism).

• Why someone would check this test: To diagnose thyroid disorders, monitor thyroid function in those already diagnosed, evaluate fertility issues or menstrual irregularities, or assess thyroid function in individuals with certain medical conditions or risk factors.

Free T4 (Free Thyroxine) Blood Test:

• Who should get this test: Patients with symptoms of thyroid dysfunction such as fatigue, weight changes, hair loss, or changes in mood, individuals with a family history of thyroid disorders, those with known thyroid conditions like hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism, or individuals with certain medical conditions such as autoimmune diseases.

• What's included in the test: Free T4 measures the amount of unbound thyroxine, a thyroid hormone, in the blood. It provides information about thyroid function, specifically the amount of hormone available for use by the body.

• Why someone would check this test: To diagnose thyroid disorders, monitor thyroid function in those already diagnosed, assess the effectiveness of thyroid medications, evaluate fertility issues or menstrual irregularities, or investigate symptoms of thyroid dysfunction.

A1c (Glycated Hemoglobin) Blood Test:

• Who should get this test: Patients with diabetes or prediabetes, individuals with risk factors for diabetes such as obesity, sedentary lifestyle, or family history of diabetes, or those with symptoms of high blood sugar levels like increased thirst or frequent urination.

• What's included in the test: The A1c test measures the average blood sugar levels over the past 2-3 months by assessing the percentage of hemoglobin that is glycated (attached to sugar molecules). Higher A1c levels indicate poorer blood sugar control and increased risk of diabetes complications.

• Why someone would check this test: To diagnose diabetes or prediabetes, monitor blood sugar control in individuals with diabetes, guide treatment decisions (such as medication adjustments or lifestyle interventions), or assess the risk of diabetes-related complications such as heart disease, kidney disease, or nerve damage.

PSA Test (Prostate-Specific Antigen) *For Men over 40 years old only*:

• Who should get this test: Patients with risk factors for prostate cancer such as older age, family history of prostate cancer, or African American ethnicity, individuals with symptoms suggestive of prostate problems like frequent urination, difficulty urinating, blood in the urine or semen, or pelvic pain, or those undergoing routine prostate cancer screening discussions with their healthcare provider.

• What's included in the test: The PSA test measures the levels of prostate-specific antigen, a protein produced by the prostate gland, in the blood. Elevated PSA levels may indicate prostate conditions such as prostate cancer, benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), or prostatitis.

• Why someone would check this test: To screen for prostate cancer, particularly in men aged 50 and older or those at higher risk, to monitor the progression of prostate conditions like cancer or BPH, to guide treatment decisions, or to assess response to prostate cancer treatment.

Ferritin Blood Test:

• Who should get this test: Patients with symptoms of iron deficiency or iron overload such as fatigue, weakness, pale skin, or abdominal pain, individuals with risk factors for iron deficiency or overload like heavy menstrual bleeding, gastrointestinal bleeding, or a history of iron disorders, or those with certain chronic diseases like inflammatory conditions or liver disease.

• What's included in the test: Ferritin is a protein that stores iron in the body, so the ferritin blood test measures the levels of ferritin in the blood. High levels may indicate iron overload, while low levels may suggest iron deficiency.

• Why someone would check this test: To diagnose iron deficiency or iron overload, monitor treatment for iron disorders, investigate symptoms of fatigue or weakness, evaluate abnormal levels of other blood tests like hemoglobin or hematocrit, or assess the underlying cause of certain medical conditions such as anemia or liver disease.

Vitamin B12 Blood Test:

• Who should get this test: Patients with symptoms of vitamin B12 deficiency such as fatigue, weakness, numbness or tingling in the hands and feet, difficulty walking, memory problems, or mood changes, individuals with risk factors for deficiency like strict vegetarian or vegan diets, older adults, or those with gastrointestinal disorders that affect nutrient absorption.

• What's included in the test: The Vitamin B12 test measures the levels of vitamin B12 in the blood, which is essential for red blood cell production, neurological function, and DNA synthesis. Low levels of vitamin B12 can indicate a deficiency, while high levels may suggest an excess or certain medical conditions.

• Why someone would check this test: To diagnose vitamin B12 deficiency or excess, monitor treatment for deficiency, investigate symptoms of fatigue or neurological problems, evaluate abnormal levels of other blood tests like complete blood count (CBC) or methylmalonic acid (MMA), or assess the underlying cause of certain medical conditions such as anemia, neuropathy, or gastrointestinal disorders.

Folate Blood Test:

• Who should get this test: Patients with symptoms of folate deficiency such as fatigue, weakness, pale skin, irritability, or mouth sores, individuals with risk factors for deficiency like poor dietary intake, alcoholism, malabsorption disorders, or certain medications that interfere with folate absorption or metabolism.

• What's included in the test: The Folate test measures the levels of folate in the blood, which is essential for DNA synthesis, red blood cell formation, and cell division. Low levels of folate can indicate a deficiency, while high levels may suggest an excess or certain medical conditions.

• Why someone would check this test: To diagnose folate deficiency or excess, monitor treatment for deficiency, investigate symptoms of fatigue or anemia, evaluate abnormal levels of other blood tests like complete blood count (CBC) or vitamin B12, or assess the underlying cause of certain medical conditions such as megaloblastic anemia, neuropathy, or gastrointestinal disorders.

Vitamin D Blood Test:

• Who should get this test: Patients with symptoms of vitamin D deficiency such as fatigue, bone pain or weakness, muscle aches or weakness, or frequent infections, individuals with risk factors for deficiency like limited sun exposure, dark skin, older age, obesity, or certain medical conditions affecting vitamin D absorption or metabolism.

• What's included in the test: The Vitamin D test measures the levels of vitamin D in the blood, which is essential for bone health, immune function, and overall health. Low levels of vitamin D can indicate a deficiency, while high levels may suggest excess intake or certain medical conditions.

• Why someone would check this test: To diagnose vitamin D deficiency or excess, monitor treatment for deficiency, investigate symptoms of bone pain or weakness, evaluate abnormal levels of other blood tests like calcium or parathyroid hormone, or assess the underlying cause of certain medical conditions such as osteoporosis, rickets, or malabsorption disorders.

Magnesium Level:

• Who should get this test: Patients experiencing symptoms like muscle weakness, tremors, irregular heartbeat, or seizures, individuals with certain medical conditions like kidney disease or diabetes, those taking medications affecting magnesium levels, or those at risk of magnesium deficiency due to poor dietary intake or alcoholism should consider this test.

• What's included in the test: The test measures the amount of magnesium in the blood, typically conducted using a blood sample drawn from a vein in the arm. Magnesium exists in the body mainly in its ionized form, and the test evaluates both total and ionized magnesium levels.

• Why someone would check this test: Magnesium is crucial for various bodily functions, including muscle and nerve function, heart rhythm regulation, and bone strength. Low magnesium levels (hypomagnesemia) can lead to symptoms like muscle cramps, fatigue, and abnormal heart rhythms, while high levels (hypermagnesemia) can cause nausea, vomiting, and cardiac arrest. Monitoring magnesium levels helps in diagnosing deficiencies or excesses and guiding treatment to restore balance and prevent complications.

Blood Type Blood Test (ABO and Rh Typing):

• Who should get this test: Patients undergoing surgery or medical procedures requiring blood transfusions, pregnant women to assess their risk of Rh incompatibility with the fetus, individuals interested in blood donation, or those investigating their family history for genetic conditions.

• What's included in the test: ABO typing determines the presence of antigens (A and B) on red blood cells, while Rh typing determines the presence of the Rh factor (Rh-positive or Rh-negative). This test categorizes blood into different blood types: A, B, AB, or O, and Rh-positive or Rh-negative.

• Why someone would check this test: To determine compatibility for blood transfusions, prevent adverse reactions to blood transfusions, assess risk of hemolytic disease of the newborn in pregnant women, ensure safe blood donation practices, or determine paternity through genetic inheritance of blood types.

hsCRP Test (High-Sensitivity C-Reactive Protein):

• Who should get this test: Patients with risk factors for cardiovascular disease such as obesity, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, smoking, or family history of heart disease, individuals with inflammatory conditions like rheumatoid arthritis or lupus, or those undergoing cardiovascular risk assessment or monitoring.

• What's included in the test: The hsCRP test measures levels of C-reactive protein (CRP), a marker of inflammation, in the blood. High-sensitivity assays can detect even low levels of CRP, providing valuable information about cardiovascular risk.

• Why someone would check this test: To assess cardiovascular risk, particularly in individuals with risk factors for heart disease or those with inflammatory conditions, to guide treatment decisions such as statin therapy or lifestyle interventions, or to monitor response to treatment and assess risk reduction over time.

Urine Analysis (UA):

• Who should get this test: Patients with symptoms of urinary tract infections (UTIs) such as frequent urination, burning sensation during urination, cloudy or foul-smelling urine, or abdominal pain, individuals with risk factors for kidney disease such as diabetes, high blood pressure, or family history of kidney disease, or those undergoing routine health check-ups or pre-employment screenings.

• What's included in the test: The UA test examines various components of urine, including color, clarity, odor, pH, specific gravity, protein, glucose, ketones, bilirubin, blood cells (red and white), bacteria, and other substances, to assess kidney function, detect signs of urinary tract infections or kidney disease, or screen for metabolic abnormalities.

• Why someone would check this test: To diagnose urinary tract infections, kidney disorders, or metabolic conditions, monitor kidney function in individuals with known kidney disease or risk factors, assess overall health, screen for drug use or pregnancy, or detect underlying medical conditions such as diabetes, liver disease, or urinary tract abnormalities.

Uric Acid Test:

• Who should get this test: Patients with symptoms suggestive of gout such as sudden and severe joint pain, swelling, redness, or limited joint mobility, individuals with risk factors for gout such as obesity, high blood pressure, diabetes, kidney disease, or family history of gout, or those undergoing routine health check-ups or screening for gout.

• What's included in the test: The UA test measures levels of uric acid in the blood. Uric acid is a waste product formed when the body breaks down purines, which are found in certain foods and are also produced by the body. Elevated uric acid levels may indicate gout, kidney disease, or certain metabolic disorders.

• Why someone would check this test: To diagnose gout or monitor its treatment, assess kidney function, screen for underlying health problems such as kidney disease or metabolic disorders, evaluate risk factors for gout, or monitor response to treatment for conditions affecting uric acid levels.