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BLOOD WORK RESULTS
A BLOOD TEST sometimes referred to as a BLOOD PANEL is a laboratory examination of a blood
sample used to check for a variety of things, including the functioning of certain organs (such as the liver,
kidneys, thyroid and heart), infections and certain genetic disorders, as well as to assess an individual’s
general health
After the sample has been analyzed in the lab and the results compiled, a blood test report will in most
cases be supplied to the testee. The report details the various components in the blood and at what level
they are present. For those from non-medical backgrounds, the reports provided following blood tests can
be complex and difficult to decipher.
Blood test results generally use the metric system of measurement and various abbreviations
Abbreviation Metric System Abbreviation Metric System
cmm cells per cubic millimeter mg/dL milligrams per deciliter
fraction of one-millionth of a
fL (femtoliter) mL milliliter
liter
g/dL grams per deciliter mmol/L millimoles per liter
IU/L international units per liter ng/mL nanograms per milliliter
mEq/L milliequivalent per liter pg (picograms) one-trillionth of a gram
Blood Test Results Components
A blood test is typically composed of three main tests: a complete blood count, a metabolic panel and a
lipid panel.3 Each test for different things, which can be understood through a detailed analysis of the
results.
Confusingly, it is likely that the results of the three tests will not be differentiated from each other and,
instead, will be listed under one large column, often labelled “Test Name”. Within each are various sub-
tests, which altogether give a broad picture of an individual’s health.
Complete Blood Count (CBC)
The complete blood count (CBC) concentrates on the three types of blood cells: white blood cells (WBCs),
red blood cells (RBCs) and platelets. By measuring the volume of blood cells, the CBC allows a doctor to
evaluate an individual’s overall health, as well as check for underlying conditions such as leukemia
and anemia
The Subtests Within The Complete Blood Count Are
Also known as leukocytes, white blood cells are a major component of the
White blood cell body’s immune system. A high white blood cell count can indicate the presence
(WBC) count of infection, while a low count can point towards various conditions, including
HIV/AIDS and lupus
The lab tests the five main components of white blood cells and their proportion
Differential white to each other. If the components are out of balance, this could indicate an
blood cell count infection, as well as a variety of medical conditions. Healthy proportions for each
are:
White Blood Cells Proportions White Blood Cells Proportions
1. Neutrophils 40 to 60 percent of the total 4. Eosinophiles 1 to 4 percent
2. Lymphocytes 20 to 40 percent 5. Basophils 0.5 to 1 percent
3. Monocytes 2 to 8 percent
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Red blood cells (RBCs) carry oxygen to tissues throughout the body, making
them important to its healthy functioning. A red blood cell count estimates the
Red blood cell (RBC) volume of RBCs within an individual – if the results show a count above or below
count normal levels this can indicate various medical conditions to a doctor. However,
this form of testing is unable to pinpoint the root causes of any irregularities,
meaning, if this is the case, further tests will be necessary
Tests what proportion of the blood is made up of RBCs. It is useful in diagnosing
Hematocrit (Hct) test
anemia, among other medical conditions.
Hemoglobin is a protein contained within red RBCs that sends oxygen from the lungs to
Hemoglobin (Hgb)
the body’s tissues. The hemoglobin test is also useful in diagnosing anemia, with many
test practitioners preferring this test over the hematocrit test.7
Mean corpuscular The average volume of RBCs, or the space each red blood cell fills, is measured
volume (MCV) test through this test. Results outside of the normal range can be a sign of anemia or
Mean corpuscular The lab tests the average amount of hemoglobin present in each red blood
hemoglobin (MCH) cell. High levels are a possible indicator of anemia and low levels a possible sign
test of malnutrition.
Red cell distribution
Tests the distribution of RBCs, not their actual size. Levels outside of the normal
width (RDW or
range can indicate conditions such as anemia, malnutrition and liver disease.
RCDW) test
Platelet count Platelets are small cells that help the blood to clot. This test measures the
Tests the volume of platelets in the blood. A low platelet volume can cause
Mean platelet volume
irregularities with bleeding, while a high platelet volume can increase an
(MPV)
individual’s risk of heart attack or stroke.
Comprehensive The comprehensive metabolic panel test, also known as a chemistry panel,
metabolic panel measures the body’s glucose levels, fluid and electrolyte balance, as well as liver
(CMP) and kidney function. It consists of a number of sub-tests:
Alanine
Alanine aminotransferase (ALT) is an enzyme mostly produced by liver cells. High
aminotransferase
levels can be an indication of liver damage.
(ALT) test
Albumin is a protein produced by the liver. Its volume within the organ can be
Albumin test measured via this test. Abnormal levels can be caused by liver or kidney
problems.
The lab tests the ratio of two types of proteins: albumin and globulin. Low
protein levels can indicate various conditions, including liver and kidney
Total protein test
disorders and malnutrition, while high levels can be a sign of inflammation,
infection or bone marrow disorder.
Alkaline phosphatase is an enzyme typically produced in liver and bone cells.
Alkaline phosphatase
Results outside of the normal levels can signal liver damage and bone problems
test
such as rickets or bone tumors.
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Aspartate aminotransferase is an enzyme usually found in RBCs and muscle
tissue, as well as the heart, pancreas, liver and kidneys. This test measures the
Aspartate
levels of this enzyme in the body, with results above the healthy range indicating
aminotransferase test
a variety of conditions, including some types of cancer, as well as liver, heart or
kidney damage.
The lab tests for kidney and liver dysfunction which is useful in diagnosing
Bilirubin test
conditions such as neonatal jaundice, anemia and liver diseases.
This test measures the volume of nitrogen in the blood. High levels can be
Blood urea nitrogen
caused by kidney damage or disease, while low levels may be a sign of
(BUN) test
malnutrition or severe liver damage.
This test measures the levels of calcium in the blood. If testing indicates low
levels, this can indicate cancer, hyperparathyroidism, tuberculosis and other
Calcium test
conditions, while high levels can indicate conditions including malnutrition,
rickets and hypoparathyroidism.
This test measures the body’s chloride levels. An increased level of chloride can
Chloride test
indicate dehydration as well as kidney disorders and adrenal gland dysfunction.
Creatinine is a chemical waste molecule that is important for creating muscle
Creatinine test
energy. Increased levels of creatinine can be a sign of kidney dysfunction.
Blood sugar levels are easily affected by recent food or drink intake. The fasting blood
Fasting blood sugar
sugar test is therefore done after a minimum of six hours of fasting. Abnormal results
test can indicate diabetes, among other medical conditions.
The lab tests the amount of phosphorus in the blood. Elevated levels can
Phosphorus test indicate problems with the kidneys and parathyroid glands, and they may be a
sign of malnutrition or alcohol abuse.
Potassium aids the communication between nerves and muscles, regulates the
Potassium test heart and maintains muscle function. Diuretics (a substance or medication used
to increase urination) can cause potassium levels to fall.
Sodium is a mineral that aids nerve impulses and muscle contractions, as well as
Sodium test balancing water levels. Irregularities are a possible indication of dehydration,
adrenal gland disorders, corticosteroids, and kidney or liver disorders.
The lipid panel consists of various tests used to measure the different types of
Lipid panel
triglycerides (fats) and cholesterol in the blood.
This test measures the overall levels of LDL (bad) and HDL (good) cholesterol in
Total cholesterol test
the blood.
Tests for triglycerides, a fat found in the blood. Irregularities are a possible risk
Triglycerides test
factor for heart disease and other medical conditions.
HDL cholesterol, also known as high-density lipoprotein (or good cholesterol), is
HDL cholesterol test useful in protecting against heart disease. Low levels can increase the risk of
heart problems.
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LDL cholesterol, also known as low-density lipoprotein (or bad cholesterol), is
LDL cholesterol test
linked to heart disease and clogged arteries.
Calculating this ratio can help determine an individual’s risk of developing a
Total cholesterol to
heart disease. It is worked out by dividing HDL cholesterol into total cholesterol.
HDL ratio test
High levels are a possible indicator of heart problems
HERMATOLOGY-BLOOD GROUPS EXPLAINED
There are four main blood groups (types of blood). A, B, AB and O. Your blood group is determined by the
genes you inherit from your parents. Each group can be either RhD positive or RhD negative, which means
in total there are eight main blood groups.
Blood is made up of red blood cells, white blood cells and platelets in a liquid
called plasma. Your blood group is identified by antibodies and antigens in the
Antibodies & blood. Antibodies are proteins found in plasma. They're part of your body's
Antigens natural defenses. They recognise foreign substances, such as germs, and alert
your immune system, which destroys them. Antigens are protein molecules
found on the surface of red blood cells.
Blood Groups The 4 main Blood Groups
A Has A antigens on the red blood cells with anti-B antibodies in the plasma
B Has B antigens with anti-A antibodies in the plasma
O Has no antigens, but both anti-A and anti-B antibodies in the plasma
AB Has both A and B antigens, but no antibodies
Blood group O is the most common blood group. Almost half of the UK population (48%) has blood group
O. Receiving blood from the wrong ABO group can be life threatening. For example, if someone with group
B blood is given group A blood, their anti-A antibodies will attack the group A cells. This is why group A
blood must never be given to someone who has group B blood and vice versa. As group O red blood cells
don't have any A or B antigens, it can safely be given to any other group.
The Rh Blood Defining System
Red blood cells sometimes have another antigen, a protein known as the RhD antigen. If this is present,
your blood group is RhD positive. If it's absent, your blood group is RhD negative.
This means you can be A-RhD Positive (A+) Rienks B-RhD Negative (B-) AB-RhD Positive (AB+)
one of eight blood A-RhD Negative (A-) O-RhD Positive (O+) AB-RhD Negative (AB-)
groups: Can be used on any blood
B-RhD Positive (B+) Pieter O-RhD Negative(O-)
type
About 85% of the is RhD positive (36% of the population has O+, the most common type). In most cases, O
RhD negative blood (O-) can safely be given to anyone. It's often used in medical emergencies when the
blood type isn't immediately known. It's safe for most recipients because it doesn't have any A, B or RhD
antigens on the surface of the cells, and is compatible with every other ABO and RhD blood group.
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BIOCHEMICAL PROFILE - BLOOD TESTS
Diabetes: level of glucose (blood sugar) and HbA1c reflex panel in cases of high
blood sugar (non-fasting assessment)
Renal function: urea, creatinine, eGFR (calculation of glomerular filtration rate),
The biochemical profile
uric acid, phosphorus
is a series of blood
Gout: uric acid
tests used to evaluate
the functional capacity Bone health, parathyroid gland function, vitamin D status: calcium, phosphorus,
of several critical alkaline phosphatase (ALP)
organs and systems, Risk of cardiovascular disease: cholesterol, triglycerides, HDL cholesterol,
such as the liver and apolipoprotein B (if triglyceride level is too high)
kidneys. These tests
can be done on an Liver and bile duct function: total bilirubin, ALP, lactate dehydrogenase (LDH),
empty stomach or not, aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), gamma-
and are usually glutamyltransferase (GGT), albumin
accompanied by a Hemolytic disorders: total and direct bilirubin (if necessary)
complete blood count
Adrenal gland function, dehydration, edema, hypertension, blood pH
(CBC).
abnormalities, etc.: Na, K, Cl
Nutritional status and bone marrow function: proteins, albumin, globulin,
albumin/globulin (A/G) ratio, LDH
The different elements of the biochemical profile allow the clinician to specify different diagnostic options
that can subsequently be confirmed through additional tests (refer to the sections concerning each of
these tests).
ENDRCRINOLOGY- BLOOD TESTS
An endocrinologist To measure the levels of various hormones in a patient's body
uses diagnostic tests To learn if the endocrine glands are working correctly
for several reasons, To determine the cause of an endocrinological problem
including: To confirm an earlier diagnosis
Some of the diagnostic tests we used in an Endocrinology Department
Doctors use 24-hour urine collection tests to measure the levels of various
hormones in a patient's body. If a doctor suspects a patient may have Cushing's
24-Hour Urine syndrome, a condition in which the adrenal glands produce too much cortisol,
Collection Test the doctor will test the collected urine for cortisol. More than 50-100
micrograms of cortisol a day for an adult suggest the patient may have
Cushing's syndrome.
ACTH is a hormone made by the pituitary gland that tells the outer part of the
adrenal gland to produce hormones such as cortisol. An ACTH stimulation test
measures levels of cortisol in your blood before and after you are given a
ACTH Stimulation Test synthetic form of ACTH.
The test can help a doctor tell if a patient's adrenal and pituitary glands are
normal. It is often used when a doctor suspects a patient has an adrenal gland
disorder, such as Addison's disease.
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A bone density test uses X-rays to show if a person's bones have lost tissue and
minerals. It is a common test for evaluating osteoporosis, a condition which
causes bones to become less dense and weaken. The most common, and
accurate, bone density test is dual X-ray absorptiometry.
Bone Density Test A doctor may recommend a bone density test for anyone at risk for
osteoporosis, even if the person has no symptoms of the condition. The National
Osteoporosis Foundation recommends that any woman 65 or older has a bone
density test. Early detection of osteoporosis can help keep the condition from
getting worse.
The CRH stimulation test can help a doctor determine what is causing a drop or
rise in a patient's adrenal hormones. CRH (corticotropin-releasing hormone) is a
naturally-occurring hormone which causes the pituitary gland to secrete the
hormone ACTH. ACTH tells the outer part of the adrenal gland to produce
hormones such as cortisol.
CRH Stimulation Test The test is often used when a doctor suspects a patient has too few or too many
adrenal hormones, caused by a disorder such as Cushing's syndrome. The way a
patient's cortisol levels respond to the test can tell a doctor if the problem is
with the pituitary glands, the hypothalamus, or the adrenal glands.
A CRH stimulation test measures levels of cortisol in your blood before and after
you are given a synthetic form of CRH.
A dexamethasone suppression test can help a doctor learn the cause of a patient
having high levels of the hormone cortisol. The doctor gives the patient
dexamethasone, a synthetic version of cortisol, and checks the patient's urine to
Dexamethasone see how his or her body responds.
Suppression Test The test is often used when a doctor suspects that a patient has too many
adrenal hormones, caused by a disorder such as Cushing's syndrome. The way a
patient's cortisol levels respond to the test can tell a doctor if the problem is due
to a pituitary tumor, or another cause.
In fine-needle aspiration biopsy, a doctor uses a small needle to remove a
Fine-Needle Aspiration sample of cells from a thyroid nodule (a lump or growth on the thyroid gland).
Biopsy The sample is then sent to a lab to determine whether the nodule is malignant
(cancerous).
A doctor may order fine-needle aspiration biopsy to tell if a thyroid nodule is
benign (non-cancerous) or malignant (cancerous). The procedure is almost
completely accurate in diagnosing a malignancy. It can eliminate the need for
other tests, such as ultrasound or a thyroid scan.
A five-day glucose sensor test uses a small sensor and an electronic recorder to
Five-Day Glucose
monitor a diabetes patient's blood sugar (glucose) levels. The test allows a
Sensor Test (For
doctor to find patterns in a patient's blood sugar levels, and discover ways to
Diabetes)
prevent episodes of hypoglycemia (low blood sugar).
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People with diabetes must regularly measure their blood sugar levels. A patient
typically obtains a drop of blood from a fingertip, and feeds a special strip into a
handheld meter, to measure his or her blood sugar level. By doing this, a person
with diabetes will soon be able to predict which foods raise or lower those
levels.
A five-day glucose sensor test can show blood sugar trends over an extended
Oral Glucose Tolerance time. A special sensor painlessly measures blood sugar levels every five minutes,
Test and sends the data to an electronic recorder worn on the belt. This allows a
doctor to fine-tune a patient's insulin type or dosage, and make changes to a
patient's diet.
A doctor most often recommends a five-day glucose sensor test if he or she
suspects that a patient has episodes of dangerously low blood sugar levels
(hypoglycemia). The test can measure blood sugar levels at night, when a
patient is unable to do manual tests.
Semen analysis is a test, or a series of tests, that checks the health of a man's
sperm. It is used to help diagnose why a couple is having trouble getting
pregnant.
Infertility is defined as a couple being unable to become pregnant after having
Semen Analysis regular, unprotected sexual intercourse for a year. Semen analysis can help a
doctor learn if infertility is caused by the man's body producing no sperm, too
few sperm, or defective sperm that die before the woman's egg can be fertilized.
The test may also be used after a man has had a vasectomy (sterilization
surgery) to make sure his semen contains no sperm.
A thyroid scan is an image made of the thyroid gland after you have swallowed a
small amount of radioactive iodine. Because the thyroid naturally uses iodine to
produce some of its hormones, it absorbs the radioactive substance. This
Thyroid Scan substance emits energy and allows the image to be made. The image will show if
the thyroid gland is enlarged and overactive.
Thyroid scans are often used to diagnose hyperthyroidism, and to investigate
thyroid nodules
Thyroid Stimulating Hormone (TSH) is made by the pituitary gland. It normally
stimulates the thyroid to produce its hormones. In hypothyroidism, TSH is not
used by the thyroid, and its levels remain high in the blood. A TSH blood test
TSH Blood Test checks for increased levels of this hormone.
A TSH blood test is a common and important test for diagnosing hypothyroidism,
a condition in which the thyroid gland produces fewer hormones than the body
needs.
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