A blood test is a medical procedure in which a sample of blood is drawn, usually from a vein in the arm, to evaluate various aspects of health. The sample is analyzed in a laboratory to measure different components, including red blood cells, white blood cells, platelets, and plasma.
Common blood tests include:
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Complete Blood Count (CBC): Measures overall blood health, including the number of red and white blood cells and platelets, to diagnose conditions like anemia, infections, and leukemia.
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Basic Metabolic Panel (BMP): Assesses electrolyte balance, kidney function, and blood glucose levels, providing insight into metabolic and organ health.
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Lipid Panel: Measures cholesterol levels and triglycerides to evaluate heart disease risk.
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Liver Function Tests: Evaluates liver health by measuring enzymes, proteins, and substances produced by the liver.
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Thyroid Function Tests: Checks thyroid hormones to assess thyroid gland function.
Blood tests are essential for diagnosing diseases, monitoring ongoing health conditions, and guiding treatment decisions. They provide crucial information that helps healthcare providers assess overall health and detect potential issues early.