What are Laboratory Tests and Why Are They Important?
Medical laboratory services are a critical field of medicine that analyze samples taken from body fluids such as blood, urine, or tissue samples to provide objective and numerical data about the body's health status and organ functioning. These tests form the basis of modern medicine and enable doctors to "see" the chemical processes inside the body.
Laboratory tests serve many important purposes, such as diagnosing diseases, identifying risk factors, monitoring the course of an existing illness, and assessing response to treatment. The data obtained guides your doctor in making a diagnosis and creating the most accurate treatment plan for you.
Common Laboratory Tests and Areas
In diagnosis and follow-up processes, various laboratory tests may be requested based on your complaints and overall health condition. The main test groups are as follows:
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Biochemical Tests:
Measure chemical substances in the plasma part of the blood, providing detailed information about organ functions and general metabolism.- Organ Function Tests: Assess the health status of vital organs such as the liver (ALT, AST, GGT) and kidneys (Urea, Creatinine).
- Blood Sugar and HbA1c: Used for diagnosis, monitoring, and risk assessment of diabetes.
- Blood Lipids (Lipid Panel): Measures cholesterol (LDL, HDL) and triglyceride levels to determine cardiovascular disease risk.
- Vitamin and Mineral Levels: Identifies deficiencies in substances such as vitamin D, B12, iron, and folic acid.
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Complete Blood Count (Hemogram):
One of the most commonly requested basic tests. Evaluates red blood cells (for anemia), white blood cells (infection and immune status), and platelets (clotting function) in terms of number and characteristics. -
Hormone Tests:
Assess the body's endocrine system and hormonal balance. Levels of many hormones such as thyroid hormones (TSH, T3, T4), cortisol, and reproductive hormones are measured with these tests. -
Infection and Inflammation Markers:
Includes tests such as CRP (C-reactive protein) and Sedimentation (ESR) that indicate whether there is inflammation or infection in the body. Serological tests for viral infections like Hepatitis are also in this group. -
Urinalysis:
Provides important information for the screening and diagnosis of kidney and urinary tract diseases, urinary tract infections, and conditions like diabetes.
Interpretation of Results
Laboratory results are generally presented along with "reference ranges." However, these ranges represent the general population, and a result outside this range does not always mean there is a disease. Laboratory results should be interpreted by your doctor as a whole, considering your complaints, physical examination findings, and all other data. Therefore, instead of trying to self-diagnose by looking at the internet or asking around, it is vital to consult your doctor regarding your results.
This content has been translated using artificial intelligence technology.