There are several kinds of tests that laboratories can use to analyze blood samples: Blood count: Components of the blood are measured, including red blood cell count, white blood cell count, and platelets. Blood sugar: The amount of blood sugar in the blood is measured. Lipid blood tests: Cholesterol levels are measured in the blood. Enzyme and protein tests: Damaged cells release enzymes into the bloodstream. The amount of this is analyzed. Electrolytes: Certain conditions, like heart, kidney, and liver disease, and certain medications can alter electrolyte levels in the blood. Waste products in the blood: Waste produces excreted into the bloodstream by the kidneys is measured.
Biopsy
A biopsy is used to analyze suspicious cells or tissues to make a definitive diagnosis of a condition. Some examples of biopsies include: Bone marrow biopsy Endoscopic biopsy Needle biopsy Skin biopsy Surgical biopsy
Imaging Tests
X-rays: Beams are passed through the body. Dense tissues and materials absorb the rays, creating an image of the body. Some x-rays are used in conjunction with barium or iodine to provide a contrast medium.
Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI): A magnetic field lines up the water molecules within the body while radio waves pick up on this to create images.
Computerized tomography (cT) scans: X-rays are taken from several different angles. A computer processes the images into cross-sectional views of bones and soft tissues in the body. CT scans can sometimes be combined to create 3D images of the body.
Positron emission tomography (PET): This imaging test helps determine how the organs and tissues are working.
Bone scans: A bone scan is a nuclear imaging test that helps monitor bone loss, bone injury, and bone infection. It is also typically used to determine if cancer has metastasized into the bone.
Ultrasound: Ultrasound is also known as sonography. High-frequency sound waves are used to create images of structures inside the body. Ultrasound can be conducted outside the body, as in fetal ultrasound, or through a device placed inside the body, as in transvaginal ultrasound