Hemoglobin or Hemoglobin A1C test measures the percentage of glycated (glucose-added) hemoglobin molecules to determine the average blood glucose level in the last 2-3 months. Hemoglobin is a protein found in red blood cells that carries oxygen in the body. When glucose levels are high, more hemoglobin

The Total Cholesterol test measures the amount of cholesterol in the blood. Cholesterol is a type of fat found in the blood that is necessary for the proper functioning of the body. However, high levels of cholesterol can increase the risk of heart disease and stroke.

The Total Cholesterol test is used to screen for high cholesterol levels and to monitor the effectiveness of cholesterol-lowering treatments. It measures the levels of all types of cholesterol in the blood, including low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol, high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol, and triglycerides.

The test is typically performed by taking a blood sample through a finger prick or venous blood draw and measuring the cholesterol levels in the blood. Results are typically reported in milligrams per deciliter (mg/dL) or millimoles per liter (mmol/L). The American Heart Association recommends that adults have their cholesterol levels checked at least every four to six years.

It is important to note that the Total Cholesterol test alone is not sufficient to assess cardiovascular risk, and other parameters such as LDL, HDL, Triglycerides, and Non-HDL Cholesterol should be taken into account to fully understand

cholesterol levels in the body.

The Triglyceride test measures the amount of a type of fat called triglycerides in the blood. Triglycerides are important for energy storage, but high levels can be a risk factor for heart disease and other health problems.

The test is used to screen for high triglyceride levels, to evaluate the effectiveness of triglyceride-lowering treatments, and to help diagnose and monitor conditions such as diabetes, metabolic syndrome, and other lipid metabolism disorders.

The test is performed by taking a blood sample and measuring the levels of triglycerides in the blood. Results are typically reported in milligrams per deciliter (mg/dL) or millimoles per liter (mmol/L). It’s important to remember that triglyceride levels can be affected by factors such as diet, exercise, alcohol consumption, and certain medications, so any concerns should be discussed with a healthcare professional. Additionally, since food intake can affect test results, it’s important to note that the triglyceride test should be taken after a 12-hour

fast.

The LDL (low-density lipoprotein) test measures the amount of LDL cholesterol in the blood. LDL cholesterol is often referred to as “bad” cholesterol because high levels of LDL cholesterol in the blood can increase the risk of heart disease and stroke. The test is used to assess a person’s risk of cardiovascular disease and to monitor the effectiveness of cholesterol-lowering treatments.

The HDL test, also known as high-density lipoprotein test, measures the level of high-density lipoprotein (HDL) in the blood. HDL is often referred to as “good” cholesterol because it helps remove low-density lipoprotein (LDL) “bad” cholesterol from the bloodstream. HDL does this by transporting LDL cholesterol from peripheral tissues like arterial walls to the liver, where it can be broken down and eliminated from the body.

The test is used to assess a person’s risk of heart disease and to monitor the effectiveness of cholesterol-lowering treatment. Low levels of HDL cholesterol are a risk factor for heart disease, while high levels are protective. A normal range for HDL cholesterol is typically considered to be above 40 mg/dL for men and above 50 mg/dL for women. The HDL test is typically done as part of a lipid panel that also measures total cholesterol, LDL cholesterol, and triglycerides.

The Triglyceride test measures the amount of a type of fat called triglycerides in the blood. Triglycerides are important for energy storage, but high levels can be a risk factor for heart disease and other health problems.

The test is used to screen for high triglyceride levels, to evaluate the effectiveness of triglyceride-lowering treatments, and to help diagnose and monitor conditions such as diabetes, metabolic syndrome, and other lipid metabolism disorders.

The test is performed by taking a blood sample and measuring the levels of triglycerides in the blood. Results are typically reported in milligrams per deciliter (mg/dL) or millimoles per liter (mmol/L). It’s important to remember that triglyceride levels can be affected by factors such as diet, exercise, alcohol consumption, and certain medications, so any concerns should be discussed with a healthcare professional. Additionally, since food intake can affect test results, it’s important to note that the triglyceride test should be taken after a 12-hour

fast.

The Thyroid Stimulating Hormone (TSH) test is a blood test that measures the level of TSH in the body. TSH is a hormone produced by the pituitary gland that stimulates the thyroid gland to produce and release the hormones thyroxine (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3).

The TSH test is used to help diagnose and monitor thyroid disorders such as hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid) and hyperthyroidism (overactive thyroid). In a healthy individual, the TSH level will vary depending on the level of thyroid hormones in the blood. When the level of thyroid hormones is low, the pituitary gland releases more TSH to stimulate the thyroid gland to produce more hormones. Conversely, when the level of thyroid hormones is high, the pituitary gland will release less TSH.

The TSH test is performed by taking a blood sample and measuring the level of TSH in the blood. The results are typically reported in milli-international units per liter (mIU/L). The normal range for TSH levels will vary depending on the laboratory, but a high TSH level in the blood is generally considered an indicator of hypothyroidism, and a low TSH level is considered an indicator of hyperthyroidism.

It is important to remember that TSH test results should be interpreted in the context of the patient’s clinical symptoms, and that other thyroid function tests such as T4 and T3, as well as additional diagnostic tests, may be necessary to confirm a diagnosis.

A Free Testosterone test measures the amount of testosterone in the blood that is not bound to proteins. Testosterone is the primary male sex hormone and plays a vital role in the development and maintenance of male characteristics such as muscle mass, bone density, and body hair. Testosterone exists in the blood in two forms: bound to proteins such as sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG) and albumin, and unbound or “free” testosterone.

The Free Testosterone test is used to evaluate a man’s testosterone levels who may have symptoms of low testosterone, such as low sex drive, fatigue, and decreased muscle mass (hypogonadism). It is also used to help diagnose conditions such as testicular dysfunction, pituitary disorders, and certain types of infertility.

Test results are typically reported in picograms per milliliter (pg/mL). The normal range for Free Testosterone varies depending on the laboratory, but is generally considered to be between 0.5 and 5 pg/mL. However, it is important to remember that the normal range may vary depending on factors such as age and overall health status, and that results should be interpreted in conjunction with other clinical and laboratory findings.

It is important to note that the Free Testosterone test is not a definitive test for low testosterone and that it should be used in conjunction with other laboratory and clinical evaluations such as Total Testosterone, as well as symptoms and findings to diagnose hypogonadism.

The Prolactin test measures the level of prolactin hormone in the blood. Prolactin is primarily produced by the pituitary gland and plays a role in various body functions, including lactation, fertility, and regulation of the menstrual cycle. High levels of prolactin can indicate a pituitary tumor or another condition affecting the pituitary gland, while low levels of prolactin can indicate hypopituitarism or other disorders. The test is used to diagnose and monitor conditions such as hyperprolactinemia, hypopituitarism, and pituitary tumors.

The LH (luteinizing hormone) test, also known as the luteinizing hormone assay, measures the amount of luteinizing hormone in the blood. LH is a hormone produced by the pituitary gland that plays a crucial role in the menstrual cycle and in the production of estrogen and testosterone. In women, the LH test is used to determine ovulation and to diagnose conditions such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and menopause. In men, it is used to evaluate fertility and to diagnose conditions such as hypogonadism. Additionally, it can be used to help identify pituitary gland disorders.

The Estradiol test measures the levels of estradiol, a form of estrogen in the blood. Estrogen is a hormone that plays a key role in the development and maintenance of the female reproductive system, as well as in regulating the menstrual cycle. High levels of estradiol may indicate certain medical conditions such as ovarian or adrenal tumors, while low levels may indicate menopause or other hormonal imbalances. The test is typically requested along with other hormone tests such as FSH or LH to help diagnose and treat conditions related to the ovaries and testes.

The Follicle Stimulating Hormone (FSH) test is a blood test that measures the FSH levels in the bloodstream. FSH is a hormone produced by the pituitary gland that plays an important role in regulating the menstrual cycle and fertility in women, and sperm production in men.

In women, FSH levels fluctuate during the menstrual cycle, with higher levels indicating the start of a new cycle. The test is used to assess a woman’s ovarian reserve, which is the number of remaining eggs in her ovaries, and to check for ovulation problems such as Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS), Primary Ovarian Insufficiency (POI), and menopause.

In men, FSH plays a critical role in sperm production. The test is used to evaluate testicular function, monitor sperm production-related issues such as hypogonadism, and track the effectiveness of infertility treatment.

Normally, FSH levels are low in the early stages of the menstrual cycle and increase as the cycle progresses. However, the normal range for FSH levels varies depending on the laboratory and the population being tested, and it can also change during the menstrual cycle. It is important to note that to have a comprehensive assessment of reproductive function, the FSH test should be done in conjunction with other hormone levels such as LH, testosterone, estradiol, and inhibin B.

The Free Androgen Index (FAI) test is a blood test that measures the level of free testosterone in relation to sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG) levels in the blood. Free testosterone is the portion of testosterone that is not bound to proteins such as SHBG, and therefore, is ready to enter cells and exert its effects.

The test is used to evaluate androgen excess or deficiency in women. Androgen excess can cause symptoms such as acne, hirsutism, and menstrual irregularities and is often associated with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). Androgen deficiency can cause symptoms such as fatigue, decreased libido, and muscle weakness.

The FAI test is calculated by dividing the free testosterone level by the total testosterone level and multiplying by 100. The normal range for FAI is typically between 15 and 70, but this may vary depending on the laboratory and population being tested. It is important to note that the FAI test alone is not a reliable measure of androgen status and should be interpreted in conjunction with other clinical findings and other hormonal measurements such as total testosterone, DHEAS,

LH/FSH ratio, and SHBG.

The albumin test is a blood test that measures the level of albumin in the blood. Albumin is a protein made by the liver and is the most abundant protein in the blood. It plays an important role in maintaining the proper balance of fluids in the body, as well as transporting hormones, drugs, and other substances through the bloodstream.

The albumin test is typically used to diagnose and monitor conditions related to liver disease, such as cirrhosis, hepatitis, and liver cancer, as well as conditions related to kidney disease, malnutrition, and certain types of cancer. It can also be used to monitor treatment for these conditions.

Albumin levels can be affected by many factors, including age, certain medical conditions, and medications. The normal range for albumin levels can vary depending on the laboratory as well as the person’s age and gender. A low albumin level may indicate liver or kidney disease, malnutrition, or cancer. A high albumin level may indicate dehydration or a certain type of cancer.