The Widal test is a blood test that can help diagnose typhoid fever, also known as enteric fever: How it works A patient's serum is mixed with antigens from the bacteria that causes typhoid fever, and then tested for antibodies against those antigens. If antibodies are present, the test is positive. History The Widal test was developed in 1896 by Georges-Fernand Widal. Usage The Widal test is still used in many developing countries, but is not commonly performed in the United States and other developed countries. Limitations The Widal test can produce false positives or false negatives for a number of reasons, including: Vaccination against typhoid fever Infections with other bacteria Performing the test too early in the disease course Procedure The Widal test involves drawing a blood sample from a vein in the arm, and then transferring the sample to a lab for processing

Dengue IgM and IgG antibodies can be used to determine if someone has been infected with the dengue virus, and to differentiate between primary and secondary infections: IgM antibodies These antibodies are produced early in an infection, and can be detected 3–7 days after exposure. A positive IgM test indicates a recent infection, but it can also be caused by a cross-reaction with a similar virus like chikungunya. IgM antibodies can remain detectable for up to 6 months after the infection has resolved. IgG antibodies These antibodies are produced 7–14 days after infection, and can be detected for months or even years. A positive IgG test indicates exposure to the virus in the past. IgM/IgG ratio The ratio of IgM to IgG antibodies can be used to distinguish between primary and secondary infections. A primary infection is indicated by an IgM/IgG ratio greater than 1.2, while a secondary infection is indicated by a ratio less than 1.2. Test results A negative test for both IgM and IgG antibodies may indicate that the person doesn't have a dengue infection, or that the antibody levels are too low to detect.

Malaria antigen detection tests are a group of rapid diagnostic tests that detect proteins produced by malaria parasites in the blood of infected people. These tests can help diagnose malaria quickly, even when traditional laboratory techniques or equipment aren't available. Here are some things to know about malaria antigen tests: How they work Malaria antigen tests detect specific proteins released into the blood by the malaria parasite during its lifecycle. Different types of tests Some tests can detect only one species of malaria parasite, like Plasmodium falciparum or *P. vivax*, while others can detect multiple species. When to use them Antigen tests can show a positive result even in the early stages of infection, when antibody tests might still be negative. Importance of early diagnosis Malaria can lead to serious complications if left untreated, including kidney and liver damage, internal bleeding, and neurological problems. Common symptoms include high fever, chills, shivering, jaundice, nausea, vomiting, and convulsions

An electrolyte panel, also known as a serum electrolyte test or electrolyte blood test, is a blood test that measures the levels of electrolytes in your body. Electrolytes are minerals and salts that help control the amount of fluid in your body, and help your muscles and nerves function properly. An electrolyte imbalance can occur due to a number of conditions, including dehydration, kidney disease, and cardiovascular disease. Some reasons you might need an electrolyte test include: You're taking medications that can affect electrolyte levels, such as diuretics, blood pressure medications, or anti-seizure medications You collapsed while exercising or playing sports You're in the hospital for a heat-related illness A related test, the anion gap blood test, measures whether your electrolytes are out of balance, or if your blood is too acidic or not acidic enough.

A calcium test measures the amount of calcium in your blood, urine, or both. It can help diagnose a variety of medical conditions, including bone disease, kidney disease, and thyroid disease. There are different types of calcium tests, including: Total calcium test The most common test that measures the total amount of calcium in your blood. This test is usually a good reflection of the amount of free calcium in your blood, but in some cases it may not be. Ionized calcium test Measures the amount of calcium that is not attached to proteins in your blood. This test is often used for people who are critically ill, have blood protein abnormalities, or are receiving blood transfusions. Calcium score test A CT scan that measures your risk for a heart attack. The test involves lying on a table that slides into a scanner, and having small electrode patches placed on your chest. A normal range for total blood calcium in adults is 8.5 to 10.3 milligrams per deciliter (mg/dL). A normal ionized calcium level is usually between 4.6 to 5.3 mg/dL. Test results can vary depending on your age, gender, health history, and other factors. You should ask your healthcare provider what your test results mean for you.

A protein, albumin, and globulin test measures the amount of protein in your blood, and compares the levels of albumin and globulin. This test can help diagnose or monitor a variety of health conditions, including liver and kidney disease, nutritional deficiencies, and immune system disorders. Test What it measures What it can help diagnose Total protein test Total amount of protein in your blood, including albumin and globulin Liver or kidney disease, nutritional deficiencies Albumin-to-globulin (A/G) ratio test Ratio of albumin to globulin in your blood Liver or kidney disease Serum protein electrophoresis Levels of each type of protein in your blood, including globulins Immune system disorders, multiple myeloma, and other conditions You might need this test if you have symptoms like: Swelling in the feet, ankles, legs, and/or abdomen Fatigue Unexplained weight loss Loss of appetite Nausea and vomiting Jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes) Blood in the urine A technician will take a blood sample from a vein in your arm, or sometimes with a finger prick. The results should be back in about 12 hours

A phosphorus test, also known as a phosphate blood test, measures the amount of phosphorus in your blood. Phosphorus is a mineral that helps build strong bones and teeth, and is important for nerve signaling and muscle contraction. A phosphorus test is often used to help diagnose or monitor conditions such as: Kidney disease, Bone disorders, Parathyroid disorders, Diabetes, and Acid-base imbalance. Abnormal phosphorus levels can be caused by: Certain medicines, such as laxatives that contain phosphate Alcoholism Hypercalcemia (too much calcium in the blood) To perform the test, a technician will: Clean the skin on your arm Insert a needle into a vein, usually in your elbow or the back of your hand Collect blood into a tube Remove the needle and stop any bleeding Label the tube and send it to a lab Normal phosphorus levels vary by age and gender, but are generally between 2.8 and 4.5 mg/dL for adults and 4.0 to 7.0 mg/dL for children

An ionized calcium test measures the amount of calcium in your blood that is not attached to proteins, also known as free calcium. It's a separate test from the total calcium test, which measures all the calcium in your blood. Ionized calcium test When to get it If you have signs of bone, kidney, liver, or parathyroid disease, or to monitor treatment for these conditions Normal range 4.8–5.6 milligrams per deciliter (mg/dL) for adults, 4.8–5.3 mg/dL for children How it works A blood sample is taken from a vein in your arm Risks There is very little risk to the test, but you may have slight pain or bruising at the needle site A doctor may order an ionized calcium test if you have factors that can increase or decrease your total calcium levels, such as abnormal blood levels of albumin or immunoglobulins.

Bicarbonate is a base that helps maintain the body's acid-base balance, also known as pH. It's an important component of the body's buffering system and is found in the blood and mineral water. Here are some things to know about bicarbonate: Chemical formula: Bicarbonate's chemical formula is HCO3- and its molar mass is 61.02 g/mol. Blood pH: The kidneys regulate blood bicarbonate levels. The amount of carbon dioxide (CO2) in the blood is used to measure serum bicarbonate levels, which indicates the body's acid-base balance. Metabolic acidosis: If the body has too much acid, it's called metabolic acidosis. Sodium bicarbonate: Also known as baking soda, sodium bicarbonate is a compound that contains bicarbonate. Blood gas analysis: Bicarbonate is a calculated value that's determined as part of a blood gas analysis.

A urine microalbumin test, also known as a microalbumin creatinine ratio (ACR) test, measures the amount of albumin in your urine to check for kidney disease. Albumin is a protein in your blood that healthy kidneys filter out, so only a small amount or none at all usually passes into your urine. If your kidneys are damaged, larger amounts of albumin can pass into your urine. A urine microalbumin test can help identify kidney disease that can occur as a complication of diabetes. It can also be used to monitor kidney function in people with kidney disease or who take medications that can affect the kidneys. Here are some things to know about urine microalbumin tests: Preparation You don't need to prepare for the test, but you should let your healthcare provider know about all medications, herbs, vitamins, and supplements you take. Sample collection You can provide a random urine sample or collect urine over a 24-hour period. The sample should be collected in a plastic urine tube and should be 5 mL in volume. Results A very low ACR value usually means your kidneys are functioning normally, while a very high ACR level indicates more severe kidney disease. A slightly raised ACR level may indicate early-stage kidney disease.

A potassium test measures the amount of potassium in your blood or urine. Potassium is an electrically charged mineral that helps your body regulate fluid levels and pH balance, and is important for muscle and nerve function. A potassium test can help diagnose or monitor conditions related to abnormal potassium levels, such as: Kidney disease, High blood pressure, Heart disease, Diabetes, and Adrenal gland disorders. A potassium test is usually performed by drawing blood from a vein, typically in the back of the hand or inside of the elbow. The preparation for a potassium test may vary depending on the specific test, but your doctor may ask you to: Not eat for at least 6 hours before the test Drink only water Avoid taking certain medicines before the test A normal potassium level for adults is between 3.5 and 5.0 millimoles per liter (mmol/L). Potassium levels above 5.5 mmol/L are considered hyperkalemia, and levels above 6.5 mmol/L can cause heart problems that require immediate medical attention.

A chloride test measures the amount of chloride in your blood or urine. Blood and urine chloride tests can help doctors determine if there is a problem with your lungs, kidneys, or other parts of the systems that control the balance of acids and bases in your body.

A sodium test, also known as a sodium blood test, measures the amount of sodium in your blood. Sodium is an electrolyte and mineral that helps your body maintain fluid and acid-base balance, and helps your muscles and nerves function properly. Sodium test Purpose Detects abnormal sodium levels, monitors conditions that affect fluid and electrolyte balance, and monitors medications that affect sodium levels Normal range 135–145 milliequivalents per liter (mEq/L) When to get a test If you've had a recent injury, surgery, or serious illness, or if you consume large or small amounts of salt or fluid What it can show Low sodium (hyponatremia) or high sodium (hypernatremia) Symptoms of low sodium Fatigue, nausea, vomiting, headache, loss of appetite, confusion, hallucinations, loss of consciousness, or coma Symptoms of high sodium Thirst, urinating very little, vomiting, diarrhea, confusion, muscle twitching, or seizures The body needs about 3,400 milligrams of sodium per day, which can come from salt, fruits, vegetables, and dairy products.

A blood urea nitrogen (BUN) test measures the amount of urea nitrogen in your blood, which can help diagnose or monitor kidney disease. Urea nitrogen is a waste product that your body produces when it breaks down protein, and healthy kidneys filter it out of your blood. A higher than normal BUN level may indicate that your kidneys aren't working well. Normal range Adults 7–20 milligrams per deciliter (mg/dL) The normal range can vary depending on age and other health conditions. When to get a BUN test Reason Kidney problems You have or are at risk for a kidney problem Kidney disease symptoms You have symptoms of later stage kidney disease, such as needing to urinate more often or less often than usual, or itching What to consider Details Medications Some prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, and/or dietary supplements can affect a BUN test. Preparation You may need to modify your medication schedule before the test. Other tests If BUN is being tested with other measurements, such as in a BMP or CMP, you may need to fast for eight to 12 hours before the blood draw. To reduce your BUN levels, you can limit high-protein foods such as meats and dairy products. You can also try a diet low in protein

A uric acid test measures the amount of uric acid in your blood or urine. Uric acid is a waste product created when your body breaks down purines, which come from dying cells and some foods and beverages. A uric acid test may be used for: Diagnosing gout: High levels of uric acid can cause gout. Monitoring chemotherapy patients: Cancer treatments can increase uric acid levels, so a uric acid test can help ensure levels don't get too high. Checking for kidney stones: High levels of uric acid in the urine can cause kidney stones. Monitoring people with gout: A uric acid test can help determine the best medicine to lower uric acid levels. To prepare for a uric acid test, you may need to: Avoid eating or drinking for 4 hours before the test Stop taking certain medicines that may affect the test results Avoid alcoholic drinks, vitamin C, and x-ray dye A normal uric acid level is typically between 2.5–7.0 milligrams per deciliter (mg/dL) in males and 1.5–6.0 mg/dL in females. However, each lab has a different normal range and your doctor will also consider your age, health, and other factors when interpreting your results.

An SGOT test, also known as an Aspartate Aminotransferase (AST) test, is a blood test that measures the level of the enzyme AST in your blood to assess liver health: Purpose The SGOT test is used to diagnose liver ailments and liver damage. It can also help monitor the recovery process of known liver problems or evaluate the side effects of certain medicines. Procedure A healthcare provider draws a blood sample from a vein, usually in your arm. The sample is then sent to a laboratory for analysis, and the results are usually available within a day or two. Results The normal range for SGOT levels can vary depending on age, gender, and ethnicity, but is usually between 8 and 40 units per liter (units/L). For cisgender males, numbers over 50 and for cisgender females, numbers over 45 indicate potential liver damage. Other considerations The exact AST level doesn't tell you how much liver damage there is. A high AST with a normal ALT may mean that the AST is coming from a different part of the body

A triglycerides test is a blood test that measures the amount of triglycerides in your blood. Triglycerides are a type of fat that your body uses for energy. A triglycerides test is often part of a lipid panel, which is a group of tests that measure cholesterol and other blood fats. Your doctor may order a triglycerides test as part of a regular check-up, or more often if you are considered high risk for heart disease. High triglyceride levels can increase your risk of heart attack or stroke. They can also cause inflammation of your pancreas, called pancreatitis. Some things you can do to lower your triglyceride levels include: Exercise: Start slowly with a quick walk three times a week and build up from there. Diet: Eat fewer calories, especially from carbohydrates and fats. Eat more fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and low-fat dairy products. Alcohol: Limit yourself to one alcoholic drink a day

Serum creatinine is a blood test that measures the amount of creatinine in your blood to evaluate how well your kidneys are working. Creatinine is a waste product that comes from your muscles and is filtered out of your blood by your kidneys. Normal range Adult men 0.74–1.35 mg/dL (65.4–119.3 micromoles/L) Adult women 0.59–1.04 mg/dL (52.2–91.9 micromoles/L) Serum creatinine levels can be affected by a number of factors, including: Gender: Women typically have lower levels than men because they generally have less muscle mass. Age: The normal range for creatinine clearance is age-dependent. Diet: A diet high in meat can increase creatinine levels. Dehydration: Dehydration can increase creatinine levels. Exercise: Intense exercise can increase creatinine levels. High serum creatinine levels can indicate kidney disease or injury, but they can also be caused by other conditions. Low levels can indicate malnutrition, muscle loss, or serious liver disease.

An SGPT test, also known as an alanine aminotransferase (ALT) test, is a blood test that measures the level of alanine aminotransferase (ALT) in the blood. ALT is an enzyme that helps the liver convert food into energy. The SGPT test is used to monitor liver health and can help detect liver damage. SGPT test What it does Measures the level of ALT in the blood Why it's done Monitors liver health, detects liver damage, and evaluates liver disease treatments How it's done A blood sample is drawn from a vein in your arm and analyzed in a lab When it's recommended If you have symptoms of liver disease or damage, or if you're at risk for liver damage Results Normal range is between 7 and 56 units per liter Side effects There are no known side effects Preparation No fasting required A doctor might recommend an SGPT test if you have symptoms like: Jaundice (yellowish skin or eyes), Dark urine, Nausea, Vomiting, and Belly pain. A high SGPT level can indicate liver damage caused by conditions like hepatitis, cirrhosis, fatty liver disease, or drug-induced liver injury. A lower than normal ALT level is uncommon and usually not a cause for concern, but it could indicate a vitamin B6 deficiency or chronic kidney disease.

A cholesterol test measures the amount of cholesterol and other fats in your blood. It's a simple blood draw that can help determine your risk of heart disease and other blood vessel diseases. A cholesterol test can measure: Total cholesterol: The sum of all cholesterol in your blood Low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol: Also known as "bad" cholesterol, high levels of LDL can lead to plaque buildup in your arteries High-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol: Also known as "good" cholesterol, HDL helps carry away LDL cholesterol Triglycerides: Another type of fat in your blood, high levels of triglycerides can be associated with being overweight, smoking, or having diabetes You can get your cholesterol tested by having a blood sample taken from your arm with a needle. You might be asked to fast for up to 12 hours before the test, but most people don't need to. You should receive your results in a few days. It's recommended to get your cholesterol checked regularly, ideally every year. If you have a family history of high blood pressure, you should get tested as early as age 45.

A urine R/M test, or urine routine and microscopy test, is a diagnostic exam that analyzes a urine sample to evaluate a person's health. It examines the urine's physical, chemical, and microscopic properties to identify abnormalities or underlying conditions. The test includes: Physical examination: The urine's color and clarity, and its pH level Chemical examination: The presence of substances like protein, glucose, and ketones Microscopic examination: The presence of red and white blood cells, bacteria, crystals, and epithelial cells A doctor may recommend a urine R/M test if a person has symptoms such as: Abdominal pain, Back pain, Painful or frequent urination, and Blood in the urine. Pregnant women should also consider getting this test frequently to help prevent infection and other diseases. To prepare for the test, you should collect a urine sample in a sterile container and bring it to the lab.

Vitamin D levels that are too high or too low can affect your health: Adequate A level of 20 nanograms per milliliter (ng/mL) or higher is generally considered adequate for most people. Deficient Levels below 12 ng/mL (30 nmol/L) are too low and might weaken your bones and affect your health. Too high Levels above 50 ng/mL (125 nmol/L) are too high and might cause health problems. Vitamin D is important for bone health and overall health. You can check your vitamin D levels with a blood test. Vitamin D level Category Less than 30 nmol/L Deficiency 30 to below 50 nmol/L Inadequate 50 to 124 nmol/L Adequate Over 125 nmol/L Too high Some factors that can increase your risk of vitamin D deficiency include: Living in a northern climate Staying inside most of the time Wearing sunscreen whenever you go out Having dark skin Kidney or liver disease Having a condition that affects your ability to absorb vitamin D Taking certain medications

A lipid profile, also known as a lipid panel or lipoprotein panel, is a blood test that measures the levels of different types of fat in your blood. It can help determine your risk for cardiovascular disease, pancreatitis, and other diseases. What it measures Total cholesterol The total amount of cholesterol in your blood LDL cholesterol Also known as "bad" cholesterol, this is the main source of cholesterol buildup in arteries HDL cholesterol Also known as "good" cholesterol, this helps remove LDL from your blood Triglycerides Another type of fat in your blood that comes from food and extra calories Your doctor may order a lipid profile if you: Have a family history of heart disease or stroke Are at risk for heart disease Are being treated for heart disease You might need to fast for 8 to 12 hours before the test, and most people have it in the morning.

A liver function test, also known as a liver panel, is a blood test that measures the levels of various substances in your blood to determine how well your liver is functioning. Some of the substances that are measured include: Albumin A protein made in the liver. Low levels of albumin may indicate liver disease. Bilirubin A waste product created when your body breaks down old red blood cells. High levels of bilirubin may indicate a blockage in bile flow or a problem with how the liver processes bile. Alkaline phosphatase (ALP) An enzyme found in the liver and bones. ALP levels can increase during pregnancy and growth spurts. Alanine transaminase (ALT) An enzyme that can be released into the bloodstream when the liver is damaged. Aspartate aminotransferase (AST) An enzyme that can be released into the bloodstream when the liver is damaged. Prothrombin time (PT) A measure of how long it takes your blood to clot. Blood that takes a long time to clot may indicate liver disease. A doctor can use the results of a liver function test to determine if there is liver damage and if medications need to be adjusted. If liver damage is suspected, the doctor may order multiple tests over a period of time to monitor how levels change.

BSF stands for fasting blood sugar, and RBS stands for random blood sugar: BSF A fasting blood sugar test measures the amount of glucose in your blood after you haven't eaten for at least eight hours. It's often the first test done to check for prediabetes and diabetes. A normal fasting blood sugar level is 70 to 99 mg/dL. RBS A random blood sugar test measures the amount of glucose in your blood regardless of when you last ate. It's also known as a random glucose test or casual blood glucose test (CBG test). A normal random blood sugar level is usually 125 mg/dL or lower. Blood glucose tests can be performed using a blood test from a vein, a fingerstick with a blood glucose meter, or a continuous glucose monitor. Blood glucose measured from a vein is generally considered more accurate than the other methods.

A normal vitamin B12 level is between 160 and 950 picograms per milliliter (pg/mL), but this can vary slightly between laboratories. A level below 200 pg/mL is considered low, and levels between 200 and 300 pg/mL are considered borderline. Vitamin B12 deficiency can be caused by: Diet Vegans and vegetarians are at higher risk because vitamin B12 is mainly found in animal products. Medications Some medications, such as metformin, proton pump inhibitors, histamine H2 blockers, and oral birth control pills, can cause low vitamin B12 levels. Digestive disorders Celiac disease, Crohn's disease, and atrophic gastritis can make it difficult for the body to absorb vitamin B12. Age People over 75 are more likely to be deficient because their bodies may not absorb vitamin B12 as well. Alcoholism Chronic alcoholism can damage the digestive system and lead to vitamin B12 deficiency. A doctor can prescribe a vitamin B12 test, or you can buy a test kit at a walk-in lab or online. It's important to discuss the results with a doctor

Thyroid function tests are used to check for thyroid problems. The tests measure the amount of thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH), thyroxine (T4), and triiodothyronine (T3) in your blood. The pituitary gland in your brain makes TSH and sends it to your thyroid gland. TSH controls the production of thyroid hormones.

Kidney function tests measure how efficiently your kidneys are working. Most of these tests check how well your kidneys clear waste from your system. A kidney test may involve a blood test, 24-hour urine sample or both. You usually have your test results the same day or within a few days.

A hemoglobin A1C (HbA1C) test is a blood test that shows what your average blood sugar (glucose) level was over the past two to three months. Glucose is a type of sugar in your blood that comes from the foods you eat. Your cells use glucose for energy.

CBC (Complete Blood Count) with ESR (Erythrocyte Sedimentation Rate) test is a blood test that is used to measure the number of RBCs (Red Blood Cells), WBCs (White BLood Cells) and platelets in your blood. This test is done to understand and diagnose all the diseases related to blood and inflammation in your body.