Pathology laboratories play a crucial role in modern healthcare, providing essential diagnostic services that aid in disease detection, monitoring, and prevention. Whether you are visiting a clinical laboratory for routine health screening or undergoing specialised investigations, understanding the common tests performed can help you make informed healthcare decisions.
Haematology Tests
Haematology tests analyse blood components to diagnose conditions such as anaemia, infections, and blood clotting disorders.
- Complete Blood Count (CBC): This test measures red blood cells, white blood cells, haemoglobin levels, and platelets. It helps detect infections, anaemia, and other haematological conditions.
- Coagulation Profile: These tests assess blood clotting function and are critical for patients undergoing surgery or those with clotting disorders like haemophilia.
- Erythrocyte Sedimentation Rate (ESR): Measures inflammation in the body and can help diagnose infections, autoimmune diseases, and certain cancers.
- Reticulocyte Count: Evaluates bone marrow function and red blood cell production, particularly in cases of anaemia.
- Peripheral Blood Smear: Examines the shape and size of blood cells, assisting in diagnosing disorders like sickle cell disease and leukaemia.
- Ferritin and Iron Studies: Helps assess iron deficiency anaemia and iron overload disorders like haemochromatosis.
- Vitamin B12 and Folate Levels: Determines deficiencies that may contribute to anaemia and neurological disorders.
Biochemistry Tests
Biochemical analysis helps in evaluating organ function and detecting metabolic disorders.
- Liver Function Tests (LFTs): Measures liver enzymes, bilirubin, and proteins to diagnose liver diseases such as hepatitis and cirrhosis.
- Kidney Function Tests (KFTs): Includes creatinine, blood urea nitrogen (BUN), and electrolyte levels to assess kidney health.
- Lipid Profile: Evaluates cholesterol levels, including HDL, LDL, and triglycerides, to assess the risk of cardiovascular diseases.
- Blood Glucose Tests: Essential for diagnosing diabetes and monitoring glucose levels in diabetic patients.
- Electrolyte Panel: Measures levels of sodium, potassium, chloride, and bicarbonate to assess hydration and metabolic balance.
- Protein Electrophoresis: Helps diagnose conditions such as multiple myeloma and immune system disorders.
- HbA1c Test: Monitors long-term blood sugar levels for diabetes management.
- Uric Acid Test: Used for diagnosing and monitoring gout.
Microbiology and Infectious Disease Testing
Microbiology superspeciality tests are crucial in detecting infections caused by bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites.
- Blood Culture: Helps identify bacterial or fungal infections in the bloodstream.
- Urine Culture: Detects urinary tract infections (UTIs) and determines the most effective antibiotics.
- Throat Swab Test: Used to diagnose bacterial infections such as strep throat.
- Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR): A molecular test used for detecting viral infections, including COVID-19, influenza, and HPV.
- Stool Examination: Identifies parasites, bacteria, and abnormal cells in the digestive tract.
- Wound Swab Culture: Detects infection-causing bacteria in wound sites.
- Tuberculosis (TB) Testing: Includes Mantoux test and GeneXpert for rapid detection of TB.
- Dengue and Malaria Tests: Essential for detecting these vector-borne diseases early.
Immunology and Serology Tests
These tests detect immune responses and antibodies, aiding in the diagnosis of autoimmune and infectious diseases.
- HIV and Hepatitis Testing: Identifies the presence of HIV, Hepatitis B, and Hepatitis C infections.
- Rheumatoid Factor (RF) Test: Helps diagnose rheumatoid arthritis.
- Antinuclear Antibody (ANA) Test: Used for detecting autoimmune disorders such as lupus.
- C-Reactive Protein (CRP) Test: Measures inflammation and helps detect infections and chronic inflammatory conditions.
- Allergy Testing: Identifies specific allergens causing allergic reactions.
- Monospot Test: Detects Epstein-Barr virus, which causes glandular fever.
- Syphilis and Other STD Testing: Helps detect sexually transmitted infections for early treatment.
Histopathology and Cytology
Histopathology and cytology involve the microscopic examination of tissues and cells to diagnose diseases, including cancer.
- Biopsy: Tissue samples from organs such as the liver, skin, or breast are examined to detect malignancies or other abnormalities.
- Pap Smear: A routine screening test for detecting cervical cancer.
- Fine Needle Aspiration Cytology (FNAC): A minimally invasive test for evaluating lumps or masses.
- Immunohistochemistry (IHC): A technique that helps in diagnosing specific types of cancer by detecting protein markers in tissue samples.
- Liquid-Based Cytology (LBC): An advanced alternative to the conventional Pap smear, offering more precise results.
- Bone Marrow Aspiration and Biopsy: Assists in diagnosing blood disorders and leukaemia.
Endocrinology Tests
These tests assess hormone levels and endocrine gland functions.
- Thyroid Function Tests (TFTs): Measures T3, T4, and TSH levels to detect thyroid disorders.
- Cortisol Test: Evaluates adrenal function and is useful in diagnosing conditions such as Cushing’s syndrome.
- Reproductive Hormone Tests: Includes oestrogen, testosterone, and prolactin levels, often used in fertility assessments.
- Insulin Levels: Measures insulin production and helps in diagnosing insulin resistance and diabetes.
- Parathyroid Hormone (PTH) Test: Assesses calcium metabolism disorders.
- Growth Hormone Testing: Used to diagnose growth disorders in children and adults.
Genetic and Molecular Diagnostic Tests
Genetic testing is increasingly being used for personalised medicine, early disease detection, and risk assessment.
- Karyotyping: Identifies chromosomal abnormalities that may lead to genetic disorders.
- BRCA Gene Test: Determines susceptibility to breast and ovarian cancer.
- Newborn Screening: Detects metabolic and genetic disorders in infants.
- HLA Typing: Used in organ transplantation and autoimmune disease diagnosis.
- Non-Invasive Prenatal Testing (NIPT): Screens for genetic abnormalities in unborn babies.
- Cystic Fibrosis Genetic Testing: Helps in early detection and management of cystic fibrosis.
Toxicology and Drug Testing
Toxicology testing detects exposure to drugs, alcohol, and environmental toxins.
- Drug Screening: Identifies the presence of illicit or prescription drugs in the body.
- Heavy Metal Testing: Detects toxic levels of metals such as lead, mercury, and arsenic.
- Alcohol Screening: Measures blood alcohol levels for medical and legal purposes.
- Pesticide Exposure Testing: Identifies harmful chemicals in the body.
- Nicotine and Cotinine Tests: Used for assessing tobacco exposure.
Choosing the Right Diagnostic Centre
When selecting a pathology lab for testing, consider factors such as accreditation, technology, and turnaround time. A reputable clinical laboratory ensures accuracy, reliability, and timely results, which are crucial for effective medical intervention.
Conclusion
Understanding common pathology tests can empower individuals to take proactive steps towards their health. Whether for routine check-ups or specialised screenings, a trusted diagnostic centre provides comprehensive services tailored to patient needs.
Accurate and timely results from a reputable clinical laboratory are vital for effective diagnosis and treatment planning.
If you require diagnostic services, reach out to a professional pathology lab today for accurate and timely results. A well-established pathology laboratory with experienced professionals can help ensure reliable diagnoses, guiding your healthcare decisions effectively.
