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The CBC (Complete Blood Count) test measures the number of red blood cells (RBCs), white blood cells (WBCs), and platelets. Each of these blood cells performs essential functions–RBCs carry oxygen from your lungs to the various body parts, WBCs help fight infections and other diseases, and platelets help your blood to clot. Therefore, determining their levels can provide significant health information. A CBC test also determines the hemoglobin level, a protein in RBC that carries oxygen from the lungs to the rest of your body. Evaluating all these components together can provide important information about your overall health.

The ESR (Erythrocyte Sedimentation Rate) test measures how fast red blood cells (erythrocytes) settle in a tube over one hour.

When your body is inflamed, certain proteins, mainly fibrinogen, increase in the blood. These proteins cause the red blood cells to stick together in stacks. These stacks settle faster, leading to a higher ESR.

The ESR test shows that inflammation is present. However, it cannot tell you exactly where the inflammation is or what is causing it. That’s why doctors usually do this test along with other tests. This helps them understand and treat your health problems.

What Do the Results Mean?

Pathological Factors 

The Total Cholesterol/HDL Cholesterol Ratio test measures the ratio of total cholesterol and high-density lipoprotein (HDL)/good cholesterol in your blood which is a significant indicator of cardiovascular health. This ratio is calculated by dividing the total cholesterol by the HDL number. A high ratio indicates a higher amount of 'bad' cholesterol relative to 'good' cholesterol, implying a higher risk of developing heart disease. Conversely, a lower ratio implies a higher amount of 'good' cholesterol relative to 'bad' cholesterol, indicating a lower risk.

The Very Low Density Lipoprotein test measures the concentration of very-low-density lipoprotein (VLDL) cholesterol in the blood. VLDL cholesterol plays a vital role in the body's metabolic processes. It is produced by the liver and is used to transport triglycerides, a type of fat, from the liver to various tissues throughout the body, where they are either utilized for energy or stored for later use. Though VLDL cholesterol is essential for the body's normal functioning, it is harmful if present in excess amounts. By measuring VLDL cholesterol levels, your doctor can assess your risk of developing cardiovascular diseases and recommend appropriate preventive or treatment strategies.

The Cholesterol - HDL test measures the concentration of high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol in the blood. HDL cholesterol plays a crucial role in maintaining cardiovascular health, as it helps transport excess low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol from the bloodstream back to the liver for excretion. This process prevents plaque buildup on the blood vessel walls, which can cause them to become narrow and less flexible. Higher HDL cholesterol levels are generally associated with a lower risk of heart problems, such as heart attacks and strokes. By measuring HDL cholesterol levels, your doctor can assess your risk of developing cardiovascular diseases and recommend appropriate preventive or treatment strategies, including lifestyle modifications and medications.

The Cholesterol - Total test measures the total amount of cholesterol (fats) in your blood. Cholesterol is mainly synthesized in the liver and partially in the intestines. It acts as a building block for cell membranes, is a precursor to vital hormones, and helps produce bile acids that help digest fats. Cholesterol is transported through the blood as lipoproteins: low-density lipoprotein (LDL) and high-density lipoprotein (HDL). An optimal amount of these proteins is necessary for proper body functioning.

The Triglycerides test measures the amount of triglycerides in the blood and helps evaluate your risk of developing cardiovascular diseases. Triglycerides are a type of fat (lipid) that your body uses as a source of energy. When you consume more calories than your body needs, the excess calories are converted into triglycerides and stored in fat cells for later use. High triglyceride levels can contribute to the hardening and narrowing of arteries, increasing the risk of heart attack, stroke, and other related conditions. 

The Non HDL Cholesterol test looks for the “bad” cholesterol particles that are likely to contribute to heart problems. These bad particles include LDL (low-density lipoprotein) cholesterol, VLDL (very-low-density lipoprotein) cholesterol, and remnants of other cholesterol-carrying molecules. Cholesterol is a waxy substance that circulates in your bloodstream and is essential for various bodily functions. However, too much of “bad” types of cholesterol can build up in your arteries and increase the risk of heart conditions. LDL and VLDL cholesterol particles are often referred to as the "bad" cholesterol because they can stick to the walls of your arteries and form plaque, narrowing the arteries and restricting blood flow to your heart. By measuring non-HDL cholesterol, your doctor can assess your risk of heart disease and determine if any interventions or lifestyle changes are needed to protect your heart.

The Cholesterol - LDL test measures the concentration of low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol in the blood. LDL cholesterol plays an important role in your body. It carries cholesterol from your liver to other parts of the body where it's needed for things like building cell walls and making hormones. However, it is often referred to as "bad" cholesterol because when present in excess in your blood, it can stick to your blood vessel walls leading to the formation of plaque, making them narrow and less flexible. When this happens, it's harder for the blood to flow, which can lead to heart problems, like heart attacks and strokes. By measuring LDL cholesterol levels, your doctor can assess your risk of developing cardiovascular diseases and can recommend appropriate preventive or treatment strategies.

An LDL/HDL Ratio test measures the ratio of low-density lipoproteins (LDL) to high-density lipoproteins (HDL) in your blood. These two types of lipoproteins carry cholesterol throughout the body. LDL, often referred to as the 'bad' cholesterol, carries cholesterol to the cells that need it. However, if there is too much LDL cholesterol in the blood, it can combine with other substances and form plaque in the arteries, leading to cardiovascular diseases. On the other hand, HDL, often referred to as the 'good' cholesterol, helps remove other forms of cholesterol, including LDL, from the bloodstream. It transports cholesterol back to the liver, where it is broken down and eliminated from the body, thus reducing the risk of cholesterol buildup and heart disease. The LDL/HDL ratio is a significant indicator of cardiovascular health. A high ratio indicates a higher amount of 'bad' cholesterol relative to 'good' cholesterol, implying a higher risk of developing heart disease. Conversely, a lower ratio implies a higher amount of 'good' cholesterol relative to 'bad' cholesterol, indicating a lower risk.

The Ph for Urine primarily measures the acidity or alkalinity of urine by assessing the balance of hydrogen ions in the urine. It provides insights into an individual’s metabolic and kidney function, with acidic urine suggesting conditions like metabolic or respiratory acidosis, and alkaline urine indicating potential metabolic or respiratory alkalosis. The test can also reflect dietary influences, such as high protein diets may lead to acidic urine, while fruit-rich diets may result in alkaline urine. Abnormal pH levels can indicate conditions such as urinary tract infections, kidney stones, and certain metabolic disorders. Additionally, the test helps to monitor the impact of medications and supplements on urine pH, making it a valuable tool for comprehensive health assessment and diagnosis.

The Urobilinogen test measures the amount of urobilinogen present in the urine. Urobilinogen is a substance formed from the breakdown of bilirubin, a by-product of old red blood cells processed by the liver. This test plays a key role in assessing liver function and detecting liver diseases.

Under normal circumstances, the liver converts bilirubin into urobilinogen. Some of this urobilinogen is reabsorbed into the blood, excreted by the kidneys, and then eliminated from the body through urine. However, when liver function is impaired, the amount of urobilinogen in the urine can change. Hence, the Urobilinogen test serves as an important indicator of abnormalities such as liver disease or blockage of the bile ducts.

The Ketone test measures the presence of ketone bodies in the urine, which are metabolic byproducts produced when the body breaks down fat for energy in the absence of sufficient carbohydrates. This process, known as ketosis, typically occurs during states such as prolonged fasting, strict low-carbohydrate diets, or in certain medical conditions like uncontrolled diabetes mellitus, particularly type 1 diabetes. In diabetes, for instance, the test can help identify diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA), a serious complication characterized by high levels of ketones that can lead to an acid-base imbalance in the blood. The presence of ketones in the urine can be an important marker for monitoring metabolic states and managing conditions that affect blood sugar levels.

The Nitrite test measures the presence of nitrites in the urine sample. Nitrites are chemicals formed by the conversion of nitrates by certain bacteria. Under normal conditions, urine does not contain nitrites. However, when bacteria that cause urinary tract infections (UTIs) are present, they convert nitrates (which are normally found in the urine) into nitrites. Thus, the presence of nitrites in urine is an indication of a bacterial infection, making the Nitrite test a key tool in diagnosing UTIs.

The urine colour test primarily measures the concentration and colour of urine to provide insights into an individual’s  overall health. It assesses hydration status, with clear to light yellow urine indicating good hydration and darker shades suggesting dehydration. It can also detect urinary tract infections (UTIs) through unusual colours like cloudy or reddish urine, signaling the presence of blood or pus. Abnormal urine colours, such as dark brown or amber, may indicate liver conditions like hepatitis or cirrhosis, while pink, red, or brown urine can reveal the presence of blood, signaling kidney issues, trauma, or potential malignancies. The test can reflect dietary influences and supplement intake, with certain foods and vitamins causing colour changes. It can also highlight metabolic disorders, such as porphyria, which may cause purple urine. Additionally, medication effects and potential exposure to toxins can be inferred from changes in urine colour, making this test a comprehensive indicator of overall health and potential underlying conditions.

The urine appearance test measures:

Colour: The urine colour indicates the presence of substances like bilirubin, blood, or medications in the urine, providing clues about liver function, hydration levels, or underlying health issues.

Clarity: The urine clarity assesses the transparency of urine, which can reveal the presence of cells, proteins, or other particles that may indicate infections or kidney disease.

Odor: The urine odor detects abnormal smells that may indicate infections or metabolic disorders affecting the urinary system.

By examining these aspects, doctors can gain insights into hydration status, kidney function, and potential health conditions affecting the urinary tract. This comprehensive evaluation aids in timely diagnosis and management of potential urinary tract problems. 

The urine Specific Gravity test measures the concentration of solutes in the urine, reflecting the kidneys' ability to concentrate or dilute the urine in response to varying hydration levels. By comparing the density of urine to that of water, the test provides insights into the balance of fluids and substances like salts, waste products, and other solutes. This test is important because it helps diagnose and monitor various medical conditions, including dehydration, kidney disease, diabetes insipidus, and other disorders affecting kidney function, enabling timely and appropriate medical interventions.

The Epithelial Cell test measures the presence and quantity of epithelial cells shed into the urine. This test helps doctors understand urinary tract health by identifying abnormalities such as infections, inflammation, or damage to kidney tubules. Different types of epithelial cells in urine, including squamous, transitional, and renal tubular epithelial cells, provide specific insights into the nature and location of urinary tract issues. This test aids in diagnosing conditions affecting the urinary system and guides appropriate treatment strategies based on the findings.

The urinary cast test measures the presence, and quantity of casts in a urine sample. These casts are cylindrical structures formed from coagulated proteins and cells within the kidney's tubules. By identifying and quantifying the different types of casts, such as red blood cell casts, white blood cell casts, granular casts, and hyaline casts, the test provides valuable insights into kidney health. The presence of specific types of casts can indicate underlying kidney conditions, such as glomerulonephritis, kidney infections, acute tubular necrosis, and chronic kidney disease. This test helps doctors diagnose, monitor, and manage kidney-related issues, guiding appropriate medical interventions and treatments.

The Crystals test measures the presence, type, and quantity of crystals in a urine sample. Crystals can form from various salts and minerals in the urine, and their identification helps diagnose underlying conditions such as kidney stones, urinary tract infections, or metabolic disorders. The test provides insights into potential urinary tract issues by detecting specific types of crystals, such as calcium oxalate, uric acid, or struvite crystals. By analyzing the crystals, doctors can determine the severity of the condition, monitor the effectiveness of treatment, and guide preventive measures to maintain optimal urinary tract health.

The Protein Urine test detects the presence of proteins in the urine sample. Essential proteins are typically retained in the blood by healthy kidneys, but their presence in urine can indicate kidney damage or dysfunction. Conditions like diabetes, hypertension, and certain kidney diseases can cause increased protein leakage into the urine. This test is crucial for assessing kidney health and detecting abnormalities that may require further investigation or intervention.

The Urine Glucose test measures the presence or absence of glucose in the urine sample. Normally, glucose is filtered out by the kidneys and reabsorbed into the blood, so it should not be detectable in the urine. When glucose appears in the urine, it indicates that blood glucose levels may be elevated beyond the kidneys' reabsorption capacity. 

Urine glucose is a useful test to check how well your body is managing glucose levels and kidney function. It helps diagnose and monitor diabetes, provides insight into blood sugar control, and can indicate potential issues with kidney function.

An Alkaline Phosphatase (ALP) test measures the quantity of ALP enzyme present throughout the body. The main sources of this enzyme are the liver and bones. It exists in different forms depending on where it originates, such as liver ALP, bone ALP, and intestinal ALP. In the liver, it is found on the edges of the cells that join together to form bile ducts. 

ALP levels can be increased during pregnancy as it is found in the placenta of pregnant women. It is also higher in children because their bones are in the growth phase. ALP is often high during growth spurts (a short period when an individual experiences quick physical growth in height and body weight).

An SGPT (Alanine Transaminase) test measures the amount of alanine transaminase (ALT) or SGPT enzyme in your blood. ALT is most abundantly found in the liver but is also present in smaller amounts in other organs like the kidneys, heart, and muscles. Its primary function is to convert food into energy. It also speeds up chemical reactions in the body. These chemical reactions include the production of bile and substances that help your blood clot, break down food and toxins, and fight off an infection.

Elevated levels of ALT in the blood may indicate liver damage or injury. When the liver cells are damaged, they release ALT into the bloodstream, causing an increase in ALT levels. Therefore, the SGPT/ALT test is primarily used to assess the liver's health and to detect liver-related problems such as hepatitis, fatty liver disease, cirrhosis, or other liver disorders.

The Bilirubin Total examination quantifies the levels of total bilirubin in the body, encompassing both indirect (unconjugated) and direct (conjugated) bilirubin. Bilirubin, a yellowish waste substance, is primarily generated during the breakdown of aging red blood cells (RBCs) in the body. After their typical lifespan of 120 days, RBCs disintegrate in the liver, leading to the production of a substantial amount of bilirubin. It is crucial for this bilirubin to be eliminated from the body.

Gamma-Glutamyl Transferase (GGT) is an enzyme found in various organs, with the highest concentration in the liver. Usually, this enzyme is present in low levels in the blood. However, when there is liver damage or disease, GGT is released into the bloodstream, causing an increase in GGT levels. In addition to the liver, GGT can also be elevated in conditions affecting the bile ducts or the pancreas. It is usually, the first liver enzyme to rise in the blood when there is any damage or obstruction in the bile duct, making it one of the most sensitive liver enzyme tests for detecting bile duct problems.

The Bilirubin Direct test measures the amount of direct or conjugated bilirubin present in your body. Bilirubin is a yellowish byproduct primarily produced when the body breaks down aged RBCs. When the RBCs finish their lifespan of 120 days, they break down and pass to the liver. In the liver, direct bilirubin–a form of bilirubin conjugated with glucuronic acid (sugar)–is processed, mixed with bile, and then excreted in the bile ducts and stored in your gallbladder. Finally, the bile is released into the small intestine where it is further broken down and helps digest fat. It is eventually excreted within your stool as a waste product.

Elevated levels of bilirubin can be indicative of various liver or bile duct issues. Additionally, higher bilirubin levels might result from an increased breakdown of red blood cells in the body.

The Bilirubin Indirect test measures the amount of indirect or unconjugated bilirubin in your body. Bilirubin is a yellowish byproduct primarily produced when your body breaks down aged red blood cells (RBCs). When RBCs finish their lifespan of 120 days, they break down and pass to your liver. Indirect bilirubin, a form of bilirubin that is unconjugated (not soluble in water), is bound to the protein albumin that helps transport it to the liver. When the liver processes the bilirubin, it unbinds from the albumin and binds to a sugar molecule, making it water-soluble. This water-soluble bilirubin is mixed with bile, excreted in the bile ducts, and stored in your gallbladder. Finally, bile is released into the small intestine to help digest fat and is eventually excreted with your stool as a waste product.

The Protein Total, Serum test measures the amount of proteins in the body. Proteins are known as the building blocks of all cells and tissues. They play a crucial role in the growth and development of most of your organs and in making enzymes and hormones. There are two types of proteins found in the body, namely albumin and globulin. About 60% of the total protein is made up of albumin, which is produced by the liver. It helps to carry small molecules such as hormones, minerals, and medicines throughout the body. It also serves as a source of amino acids for tissue metabolism. On the other hand, globulin is a group of proteins that are made by the liver and the immune system. They play an important role in liver functioning, blood clotting, and fighting off infections.

An SGOT (Aspartate Aminotransferase) test measures the levels of serum glutamic-oxaloacetic transaminase (SGOT), also known as aspartate aminotransferase (AST), an enzyme produced by the liver. SGOT is present in most body cells, most abundantly in the liver and heart. The primary function of this enzyme is to convert food into glycogen (a form of glucose), which is stored in the cells, primarily the liver. The body uses this glycogen to generate energy for various body functions.

The TSH (Thyroid Stimulating Hormone) Ultrasensitive test measures the levels of TSH hormone in the blood. TSH is produced by the pituitary gland located at the base of the brain. Its function is to stimulate and regulate the functioning of the thyroid gland. It signals the thyroid gland to increase or decrease the production of thyroid hormones T3 and T4 when their levels are low or high, respectively. Therefore, when the levels of T3 & T4 decrease, the pituitary gland is stimulated to release TSH. This high TSH level, in turn, stimulates the thyroid gland to release more thyroid hormones (T3 & T4). Vice versa happens when the levels of thyroid hormones increase.

What Do the Results Mean?

Pathological Factors

Physiological Factors

 🧒Age: TSH may slightly increase with age.

🫄 Pregnancy: TSH levels may drop in early pregnancy because of hormonal changes.

🧑‍🦳 Gender: Women generally have higher TSH levels than men and are more prone to thyroid imbalances, especially during pregnancy, after childbirth, or around menopause.

⚖️ Body Weight & Metabolism: Weight gain or loss can slightly affect TSH levels.

Lifestyle Factors

🥗 Diet: Too little iodine can increase TSH, while too much may lower it.

😟 Stress: Long-term stress can disturb thyroid hormone balance.

💊 Medications: Some medicines, like steroids or lithium, can change TSH levels.

🛌 Sleep Patterns: Poor sleep can affect thyroid hormone control.

🚬 Smoking & Alcohol: Smoking may lower TSH, and too much alcohol can harm thyroid function.

🏃 Physical Activity: Regular exercise supports thyroid health, but extreme workouts can cause temporary TSH changes.

Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only and should not replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult your healthcare provider for personalized guidance.

What Do Normal TSH (Thyroid Stimulating Hormone) Ultrasensitive Levels Mean?

Normal TSH levels indicate that your thyroid is functioning well, producing the right amount of thyroid hormones (T3 and T4) to regulate metabolism, energy, and overall body functions. Balanced TSH suggests your body is maintaining proper hormonal balance, supporting healthy weight, energy levels, mood, and cardiovascular health.

What Do High Levels of TSH (Thyroid Stimulating Hormone) Ultrasensitive Indicate?

High TSH levels usually mean the thyroid is underactive (hypothyroidism). The pituitary gland releases extra TSH to make the thyroid produce more hormones.

Common causes include:

• Autoimmune thyroid problems like Hashimoto’s thyroiditis
• Pituitary gland disorders
• Recovery after illness or thyroid surgery
• Some medicines or a lack of nutrients

What to Do if Your TSH (Thyroid Stimulating Hormone) Is Higher Than Normal?

If your TSH level is high, talk to your doctor. They may: 

• Recheck with more thyroid tests (T3, T4, or antibodies)
• Review your medicines, diet, and health history
• Recommend thyroid hormone treatment if required
• Track symptoms like tiredness, weight gain, feeling cold, or hair loss

Timely management can help control thyroid imbalances effectively.

What Do Low Levels of TSH (Thyroid Stimulating Hormone) Ultrasensitive Indicate?

Low TSH levels usually mean your thyroid is overactive (hyperthyroidism). This happens when the thyroid releases excess thyroid hormones, so the pituitary gland reduces TSH production.

Possible causes include:

• Graves’ disease (autoimmune thyroid disorder)
• Thyroid nodules that produce extra hormones
• Thyroid inflammation (thyroiditis)
• Taking too much thyroid medicine

If your TSH is low, your doctor may suggest more tests like T3, T4, thyroid antibody tests, or an ultrasound to find the cause and decide the right treatment.

Can TSH Results Be Inaccurate?

Yes. Certain factors such as pregnancy, recent illness, medications, or underlying pituitary or thyroid disorders can affect TSH levels and lead to inaccurate results. If your results do not match your symptoms or overall health, your doctor may suggest repeating the test or additional testing. 

What Factors Can Affect TSH (Thyroid Stimulating Hormone) Ultrasensitive Results?

The TSH (Thyroid Stimulating Hormone) Ultrasensitive test is reliable, but a few factors can affect its accuracy, such as:

• Recent thyroid surgery or radioactive iodine treatment
• Taking biotin supplements
• Severe illness or hospitalization
• Certain medicines (like amiodarone or lithium)
• Pregnancy

What Follow-Up Tests May Be Required?

Based on your TSH results, your doctor may suggest more tests to better understand your thyroid health. These tests may include:

Table: Tests Commonly Ordered Alongside TSH

How Does TSH Test Differ from Other Thyroid Tests?

It is important to understand how the TSH test differs from other common thyroid tests:

TSH (Thyroid-Stimulating Hormone): Measures how much signal the pituitary gland is sending to the thyroid to make hormones.

Total T4: Measures the overall amount of thyroxine (T4) in the blood, including both bound and unbound forms, to understand thyroid hormone production.

Free T4 (FT4): Checks the active form of T4 that is available for use by the body. It helps assess how well the thyroid is functioning.

Total T3: Measures the total amount of triiodothyronine (T3), the active hormone derived from T4, often helpful in detecting hyperthyroidism.

Free T3 (FT3): Evaluates the unbound, active T3 level to understand how efficiently T4 is being converted to T3.

Thyroid Antibody Tests (TPOAb, TgAb): Identify autoimmune thyroid conditions like Hashimoto’s thyroiditis or Graves’ disease.

The Thyroxine - Total (T4) test measures both the bound and unbound/free form of thyroxine (T4) hormone in the blood. T4 exists in the blood in two forms: bound (attached to proteins) and free (not attached to proteins). Most of the T4 circulating in the blood is bound to proteins and only a small part is free. It is necessary to maintain a fine balance of these forms to ensure the proper functioning of the body.

The Triiodothyronine - Total (T3) test measures triiodothyronine, also known as T3, hormone that is produced by the thyroid gland. T3 hormone plays an important role in regulating the body's metabolism, energy levels, and growth & development. It exists in the blood in two forms: free T3 and bound T3. Free T3 is not bound to proteins in the blood and is the active form of T3. Whereas, bound T3 is bound to proteins, such as albumin and thyroid hormone binding globulin (THBG), which prevent it from entering the body tissues.

The Microalbumin / Creatinine Ratio test compares the level of albumin and creatinine excretion in your urine primarily used to assess kidney function, specifically regarding the kidneys' ability to filter small amounts of protein (albumin) from the blood into the urine. 

The ratio of microalbumin to creatinine in your urine sample provides a more accurate assessment of kidney function by accounting for variations in urine concentration. It is typically calculated by dividing the amounts of albumin & creatinine in the urine, both measured in milligrams. This helps to standardize the results, as the concentration of creatinine in urine can vary depending on factors like hydration levels.

Elevated levels of the Microalbumin / Creatinine Ratio indicate increased urinary excretion of albumin, which can be an early sign of kidney damage that needs medical intervention.

The Urinary Creatinine test measures the levels of creatinine in the urine. Creatinine is a byproduct of muscles’ wear and tear during energy production. The kidneys remove it from the body by filtering it from the blood and releasing it into the urine. Therefore, urine creatinine levels can be an indicator of how well the kidneys are working. This test is also useful for diagnosing or detecting kidney diseases and other conditions affecting your kidneys.

The Microalbumin test measures the smallest amount of albumin present in your urine, serving as an indicator of kidney health, especially in individuals with conditions such as diabetes or hypertension. It plays a crucial role in identifying diabetic individuals who are at risk of developing chronic kidney disease. It also aids early detection, monitoring, and management of kidney disease and associated complications, enabling doctors to intervene promptly and implement measures to slow its progression.