What does hospitals test for when they take blood samples?

Hospitals perform various blood tests to analyze several health aspects. Some common tests and the parameters they measure include:

1. Complete Blood Count (CBC):

- Red Blood Cell Count (RBC): Measures the number of red blood cells, which carry oxygen throughout the body.

- White Blood Cell Count (WBC): Measures the number of white blood cells, which fight infections.

- Hemoglobin: Determines the amount of hemoglobin, an oxygen-carrying protein in red blood cells.

- Hematocrit: Measures the percentage of red blood cells in whole blood.

- Platelet Count: Determines the number of platelets, which help in blood clotting.

2. Basic Metabolic Panel (BMP):

- Electrolytes (sodium, potassium, chloride, bicarbonate): Monitors electrolyte balance essential for various bodily functions.

- Blood Urea Nitrogen (BUN): Assesses kidney function.

- Creatinine: Another marker for kidney function.

- Glucose: Measures blood sugar levels.

3. Liver Function Tests (LFTs):

- Alanine Transaminase (ALT): Indicates liver damage or inflammation.

- Aspartate Transaminase (AST): Another marker for liver damage.

- Alkaline Phosphatase (ALP): Elevated levels can suggest liver or bone problems.

- Total Bilirubin: Measures the amount of bilirubin, a pigment produced during red blood cell breakdown.

4. Lipid Profile:

- Total Cholesterol: Measures total cholesterol levels.

- HDL (High-Density Lipoprotein) Cholesterol: Known as "good" cholesterol.

- LDL (Low-Density Lipoprotein) Cholesterol: Known as "bad" cholesterol.

- Triglycerides: A type of fat in the blood.

5. Thyroid Function Tests:

- Thyroid-Stimulating Hormone (TSH): Measures the levels of TSH, a hormone that regulates the thyroid gland's activity.

- Thyroxine (T4): Measures the levels of T4, the main thyroid hormone.

- Triiodothyronine (T3): Measures the levels of T3, another active thyroid hormone.

6. Serology Tests:

- Infectious disease markers: Tests for the presence of antibodies or antigens associated with specific infections, such as HIV, hepatitis, or syphilis.

7. Hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c):

- Measures average blood sugar control over a period of several weeks. Used to monitor diabetes management.

8. Coagulation Studies:

- Prothrombin Time (PT) and Activated Partial Thromboplastin Time (aPTT): Assess the blood's ability to clot.

These tests are often part of routine health screenings or ordered by a doctor to evaluate specific medical conditions or symptoms. The specific tests performed may vary depending on the individual's health history, concerns, and the doctor's recommendations.