Drug Screening: Purpose, Process, and What You Need to Know Drug screening is a diagnostic test used to detect the presence of legal or illegal substances in the body. It plays a crucial role in healthcare, employment, law enforcement, and sports. By analyzing a sample—usually urine, saliva, blood, hair, or sweat—drug screening provides critical insights […]
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Pregnancy Test (hCG): Everything You Need to Know A pregnancy test is a simple yet highly effective diagnostic tool used to determine whether a woman is pregnant. It works by detecting the presence of human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG), a hormone produced shortly after a fertilized egg attaches to the uterine lining. What is hCG? hCG
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What is a 24-Hour Urine Test?A 24-hour urine test is a diagnostic procedure used to measure the levels of various substances excreted in the urine over a full 24-hour period. Unlike a single urine sample, this comprehensive method offers deeper insights into kidney function, electrolyte balance, and the body’s metabolic processes. Why is a 24-Hour
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Urine Microscopy: Purpose, Procedure & Clinical Importance Urine microscopy is a critical diagnostic test used to analyze the microscopic elements present in urine. This test plays a pivotal role in detecting abnormalities such as crystals, white blood cells (WBCs), red blood cells (RBCs), bacteria, casts, and epithelial cells. It helps clinicians assess kidney function, identify
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Urine Culture Test: Purpose, Process & What You Need to Know A urine culture is a vital diagnostic test used to detect urinary tract infections (UTIs). It identifies the specific bacteria or fungi causing the infection, allowing healthcare providers to prescribe the most effective treatment. This test is especially crucial for individuals with recurrent UTIs,
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Routine Urinalysis: What It Is, What It Detects, and Why It Matters A routine urinalysis is one of the most common and valuable diagnostic tests in modern medicine. It involves analyzing a sample of urine to detect and monitor a wide range of health conditions, particularly those related to the kidneys, liver, urinary tract, and
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Genetic and Molecular Tests: Understanding BRCA1/2, PCR, and NIPT Genetic and molecular tests are revolutionizing modern medicine by offering precise, personalized insights into your DNA. These tests detect mutations in genes, assess inherited risks for diseases, and identify pathogens like viruses and bacteria at the molecular level. Popular examples include BRCA1/2 testing, PCR (polymerase chain
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Tumor Markers: PSA, CA-125, and AFP Explained Tumor markers are substances—often proteins—produced by cancer cells or by the body in response to cancer. These markers are typically found in the blood, urine, or tissues and are used in cancer screening, diagnosis, and treatment monitoring. While not all cancers produce detectable markers, and not all markers
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Coagulation Tests: PT, aPTT, and INR Explained Coagulation tests are vital diagnostic tools that measure how well and how quickly your blood clots. Among the most common and clinically important coagulation tests are Prothrombin Time (PT), Activated Partial Thromboplastin Time (aPTT), and the International Normalized Ratio (INR). These tests are essential for diagnosing bleeding disorders,
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Immunology and Serology Tests: Understanding HIV, Hepatitis, CRP, and ANA Immunology and serology tests are vital for detecting how the immune system responds to infections, autoimmune diseases, and inflammation. These diagnostic tools help physicians identify conditions early, manage chronic illness, and guide treatment strategies. These tests examine antibodies, proteins, and markers in the blood that
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