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.

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.

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.

Important notes:

• Above are simplified explanations of lab tests. Interpreting Lab tests requires a healthcare professional's expertise.

• Never adjust medication based on self-diagnosis or internet information.

• Always discuss your health and test results with your doctor.

Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Please consult your healthcare professional for diagnosis and treatment.

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.

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.

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.

Important notes:

• Above are simplified explanations of lab tests. Interpreting Lab tests requires a healthcare professional's expertise.

• Never adjust medication based on self-diagnosis or internet information.

• Always discuss your health and test results with your doctor.

Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Please consult your healthcare professional for diagnosis and treatment.

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.

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.