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 Common Blood testsComplete Blood Profile (CBP)
CBP shows the concentration of haemoglobin, red blood cells, white blood cells and platelets in the blood. It indicates the ability of the body and the bone marrow to produce blood cells. It is used to check for anaemia, infections, blood cancer, lymphoma and problems with the spleen. Blood GroupThere are 4 main types of blood group: A, B, AB and O. The blood-type is then divided further by what we call the ‘Rhesus factor” (Rh) which is either positive “+” or negative “-“. It is important to know your blood type for a number of reasons. For example if you are donating your blood or in need of a transfusion. It is also essential for women to find out their blood group prior to pregnancy. Liver Function Test (LFT)LFT represents the health status of the liver cells. Abnormal liver function may be due to an excess of alcohol, a fatty liver, hepatitis, drugs or other factors. People who consume alcohol regularly and hepatitis B carriers should have regular checks on their liver function. Renal Function Test (RFT)RFT indicates the filtering function of the kidney, especially if creatinine levels are elevated. RFT also shows the balance of fluids and electrolytes in the blood. More importantly, people suffering from high blood pressure and diabetes should regularly check their kidney function. Uric AcidUric acid is a byproduct of protein metabolism. It is filtered out by the kidney. A high uric acid level can lead to gout which is a very painful condition affecting the joints. It is usually due to too much ‘purine’ in the diet, or as a result of the kidney not effectively filtering it. GlucoseHigh blood glucose is an indication of diabetes, which is an important disease that needs to be treated and regularly monitored. Blood LipidA blood lipid profile should include total cholesterol, high and low density cholesterol and triglycerides. It is an important risk factor for heart disease and stroke. Thyroid Function Test (TFT)T3 and T4 are hormones produced by the thyroid gland. It is responsible for the regulation of body metabolism. An over active thyroid will lead to increased body metabolism as reflected by increased heart rate, feeling hot all the time, over excitement, losing weight, insomnia, restlessness. On the other hand, an under active thyroid will lead to slowed metabolism, reduced heart rate, feeling cold, weight gain, weakness etc. RA Factor (Rheumatoid Factor)
RA factor is a marker indicating the risk for rheumatoid arthritis. People who are RA factor positive may not have rheumatoid arthritis, but they may be at a higher risk for developing this. Hepatitis A and B SerologyHepatitis A and B serology shows whether the person has immunity to hepatitis or if they are a carrier for hepatitis B. People who do not have immunity to hepatitis are at risk of infection and should have a vaccination against the diseases. Those who are hepatitis B carriers should have regular check ups to ensure it does not turn into chronic active hepatitis. Helicobacter Pyloris AntibodyHelicobacter pyloris antibody is used to test if a person is infected with H. pyloris which is a bacteria that causes stomach ulcer and sometimes leading to stomach cancer. Prostate Specific Antigen (PSA)PSA is a marker for prostate problems such as prostatitis or prostate cancer. Cancer MarkersCancer markers are indicator for cancers. Useful cancer marker such as AFP, CEA and EBV may be used to detect early cancers in liver, colon and nasopharyngeal area. Routine Stool TestRoutine stool tests may show up blood and parasites in the stool, which may need further medical attention and examination. Stool Occult Blood TestOccult blood means blood that cannot be seen with eyes. A positive test indicates bleeding from the gastrointestinal tract. It may due to bleeding ulcer or cancer of the colon. |
